How long must longhouse families wait for adequate housing?

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Longhouse Families Face 36-Year Wait for Adequate Housing Amidst Development Disputes

Approximately 100 families residing in the Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) longhouse community have been awaiting suitable housing for 36 years. Their prolonged wait is reportedly being exacerbated by the objections of affluent TTDI residents to the Taman Rimba Kiara development, which includes provisions for affordable housing. This situation has led to feelings of marginalisation among the longhouse dwellers, who contend that their basic need for shelter is being overshadowed by concerns over public open spaces.
Dispute Over Taman Rimba Kiara Development

The core of the issue lies in the proposed development of Taman Rimba Kiara, which is intended to provide both high-end apartments and affordable housing units for the TTDI longhouse residents. However, the TTDI Resident Association has reportedly sought to halt the project, leading to a protracted dispute. Sunderam Vadiveloo, chairman of the Bukit Kiara Public Housing Residents’ Organisation, has stated that the affluent residents of TTDI are seeking the complete cancellation of the project, which he argues sets a negative precedent for Malaysia's multi-racial society.
Concerns Over Prioritisation of Green Spaces

Longhouse residents have expressed dismay at what they perceive as a prioritisation of green spaces and recreational facilities over their fundamental housing needs. Vadiveloo highlighted that while joggers advocate for running tracks and the preservation of 3.2 hectares of land, his community is merely seeking a roof over their heads. He questioned whether saving land for recreational purposes is more important than providing proper homes for elderly families living in cramped and dilapidated conditions, especially when a substantial 6.9 hectares of green space in Taman Rimba remains undeveloped.
Legal and Political Ramifications of the Delay

The development has faced controversy since mid-2016, with recent court decisions denying the TTDI Resident Association's application for a judicial review of the development order. While developers have agreed to scale down the project to 3.2 hectares, returning a portion of the land, the longhouse residents feel their plight has been overlooked throughout the legal and political processes. There is also an expressed dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of support from certain political figures, who are seen as being more aligned with the interests of the wealthier residents.

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How long must longhouse families wait for adequate housing?

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