PUTRAJAYA, Feb 22 (Bernama) — Town and Country Planning (PLANMalaysia) director-general, Datuk Dr Alias Rameli has denied allegations that the Urban Renewal Bill (PSB) will eliminate the Malay community as well as the B40 and M40 income groups in urban areas.
He emphasised that the government upholds 10 key principles to ensure transparency and safeguard the rights of registered property owners in the drafting of the bill.
"Among the main principles of the PSB Bill are securing property owners' consent, maintaining original residents, protecting landowners’ interests, and ensuring fair maintenance cost adjustments.
"The PSB Bill does not involve amendments to other laws, as claimed by the Kota Bharu MP, such as the Federal Constitution, the National Land Code, and the Land Acquisition Act 1960," he said in a statement today.
Opposition MPs labelled the PSB Bill as a subtle tactic to displace Malays from urban areas by lowering the consent threshold for strata housing redevelopment.
Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chief Whip, Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan (PN-Kota Bharu), also claimed that the bill was being rushed through the legislative process.
Addressing these concerns, Alias stated that the PSB Bill is designed to complement existing laws while introducing additional provisions to protect the rights and interests of current property owners.
He noted that a review of over 17 property development-related acts had been conducted to prevent legal overlaps and conflicts.
Alias also dismissed claims that the Department of the Director-General of Lands and Mines (JKPTG) had not agreed to the PSB Bill.
"In reality, JKPTG, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, has agreed in principle to the bill’s drafting during the Cabinet Meeting on August 14, 2024," he said.
He added that urban renewal is the most suitable approach to address urban challenges, including the existence of dilapidated and unsafe buildings, in line with global best practices for urban development.
"Leaving old buildings to deteriorate with inadequate facilities and poor infrastructure is not an option for effective urban governance and management.
"Support from various stakeholders is necessary, and a ‘do-nothing’ approach is not an option for the MADANI government, which prioritises long-term well-being and quality of life for the people," he said.
Alias further stated that the recent action by 31 Malay-Muslim non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to submit a memorandum opposing the PSB Bill to PN could hinder the legislative process, which is designed to benefit the public, especially communities and property owners in ageing urban areas.
In GEORGE TOWN, Penang Local Government, Town, and Country Planning Committee chairman, H’ng Mooi Lye said the PSB is an effective initiative for redeveloping old or abandoned buildings, ultimately improving the quality of life for property owners in affected areas.
H’ng said that the state government, through the Penang State Housing Board (LPNPP), introduced the Guidelines for Urban Renewal Implementation (Housing Development) Penang in 2022.
He noted that these guidelines were established because many residential units in Penang have exceeded 40 years of age, leading to structural deterioration and thus through them. the state government aims to enhance livability, optimise infrastructure and public amenities, and ensure efficient land use.
-- BERNAMA
