URA: Mahathir blinded by hatred against PMX, says DAP lawmaker

Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is blinded by his hatred against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his attacks over Urban Renewal Act (URA), said Segambut MP Lim Lip Eng.

“Mahathir falsely claims the initiative to improve urban Malays’ lives will lead to their marginalisation, comparing them to Malays in Singapore. In his press conference at the Perdana Leadership Foundation yesterday, he repeatedly accused Anwar of lying.

“Mahathir also ignores the improved compensation under Pakatan Harapan. Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa confirmed that RM200,000 was disbursed to 11 Kampung Sungai Baru flat owners for land acquisition.

“Mahathir and PAS’ claim that urban development will erode Malay land ownership is baseless. Revitalising urban centres with better planning and infrastructure will only strengthen communities.

“It is disgraceful that Mahathir stubbornly clings to his prejudices instead of supporting a vital programme that would uplift those at risk of being left behind.

The DAP lawmaker pointed out that 78 percent of Malaysians live in urban areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang and URA attempts to resolve the issues regarding aged building.

“Many low-income Malay families remain in cramped, poorly maintained housing despite Malaysia’s economic progress — largely due to Mahathir’s past policies.

“Another undeniable fact is that Malays in Singapore generally enjoy a higher standard of living than those in Malaysia, contradicting Mahathir’s claim.

“The new law aims to lower the consent threshold for en bloc sales, depending on a building’s age, resolving a longstanding redevelopment deadlock.”

Lim also pointed out that the Housing and Local Government had already identified 139 land parcels and 91 sites.

“The Ministry of Housing and Local Government has identified 139 land parcels in Kuala Lumpur for redevelopment, including 91 residential sites.

“If approved, PSB projects could generate RM332.5 billion in gross development value, benefiting many lower-income families.”