Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has described the long-awaited Bukit Kiara longhouse redevelopment project as a “historic” achievement and a model for people-centred governance.
The project, which will provide replacement homes for 98 families after a 44-year wait, officially began construction today.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Anwar announced a RM1 million government allocation to subsidise maintenance costs for residents for at least three years, ensuring they are not burdened with additional expenses after moving into their new homes.
He said the project demonstrates how clear policies, committed leadership and public awareness can deliver fair and inclusive development, stressing that profit should not come at the expense of people’s welfare.
Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh said the new homes would be completed before the existing longhouses are demolished, preventing residents from being displaced. She also announced that an existing temple would be preserved as an officially recognised non-Muslim place of worship, with RM100,000 allocated for its upkeep.
The redevelopment follows a 2023 Federal Court ruling that struck down the proposed Taman Rimba Kiara mixed-development project, prompting the government to fulfil its commitment to provide permanent housing for affected families.
