Should Taman Rimba Kiara park be protected from condominium development?

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Taman Rimba Kiara Park Should Be Protected From Condominium Development

Taman Tun Dr Ismail (TTDI) residents are advocating for the protection of Taman Rimba Kiara (TRK) park from a condominium development, seeking adherence to the original 2008 Kuala Lumpur City Plan which designates most of the area as public open space. While cancelling the project carries a potential RM200 million cost for Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and a joint working committee has been formed to mediate, the core demand from TTDI residents is the preservation of the 25-acre park.
Adherence to the 2008 Kuala Lumpur City Plan

The primary argument for protecting Taman Rimba Kiara centres on the 2008 version of the Kuala Lumpur City Plan. This plan designates the majority of TRK, excluding a Hindu temple and the longhouse area, as "public open space." TTDI residents contend that the current high-rise condominium project encroaches upon this designated public land, violating the established urban planning framework. They believe the government should uphold this plan, even if the High Court ruled the development order was not illegal, arguing that legality does not equate to ethical or right action.
Addressing Longhouse Community Housing Needs

A significant aspect of the dispute involves the longhouse community residing in Bukit Kiara. This community has been promised permanent housing by the government for nearly four decades, a commitment originating from their displacement from the Bukit Kiara rubber estate in 1982. TTDI residents and taxpayers believe these permanent homes should be funded by DBKL itself, rather than being presented as part of a package deal with the luxury condominium project. They argue that housing is a government responsibility and the long-standing promise to the longhouse residents must be fulfilled independently of the development at TRK.
Financial Implications and Alternatives

Federal Territories Minister Khalid Samad has indicated that cancelling the development outright could incur RM200 million in costs for DBKL. However, it is suggested that much of this sum comprises government fees paid by the developer, Malton Berhad's subsidiary Memang Perkasa, which could potentially be returned. Furthermore, Khalid Samad noted that the high-end condominium project could be deemed illegal if the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) uncovers elements of graft, a scenario that would negate any developer claims for compensation. The minister has also expressed a preference for DBKL to use funds for infrastructure improvements like widening roads and repairing drains, rather than compensating the developer for project cancellation.
Community Involvement and Resolution Efforts

A joint working committee has been established to address the dispute, comprising the Federal Territories Minister, the Member of Parliament for Segambut, the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, representatives from the developer Memang Perkasa, and resident associations from both TTDI and the Bukit Kiara longhouse. Despite these efforts, TTDI residents maintain their position that TRK should remain untouched. They advocate for public consultation on the use of taxpayer money, suggesting that residents should have a say in decisions regarding development projects that impact their city and its green spaces. The sentiment among TTDI voters and taxpayers is a clear call to cancel the high-rise project and expedite the construction of permanent housing for the longhouse residents.

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Should Taman Rimba Kiara park be protected from condominium development?

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