Why was the Johor Sultan unaware of land involvement in the RTS project?

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The Johor Sultan Was Unaware of Land Involvement in the RTS Project Due to Lack of Communication

Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar of Johor was not informed that a 4.5-hectare parcel of his land in Bukit Chagar was designated for the proposed Johor Baru Rapid Transit System (RTS). He expressed disappointment over claims that the project's cost increased due to compensation for this land, stating he would consent to its surrender to the government without any charge if it is indeed involved. This situation arose despite the Sultan being aware of the daily travel hardships faced by Johoreans commuting to Singapore.
Lack of Prior Notification Regarding Land Use

The Sultan's private secretary, Datuk Jaba Mohd Noah, conveyed that His Highness had not been informed about the inclusion of his Bukit Chagar land in the RTS project. This lack of communication led to the Sultan's disappointment when reports emerged suggesting that compensation for this land was a factor in the project's escalating costs. Despite this, the Sultan emphasised that the interests of the people and the government are his priority and that issues should be resolved through consensus.
Sultan's Willingness to Surrender Land Without Cost

In response to the reports, Sultan Ibrahim decreed that if his Bukit Chagar land is genuinely required for the RTS project, he consents to its transfer to the government free of charge. This offer underscores his commitment to facilitating the project, acknowledging the difficulties Johoreans experience with cross-border travel. The Sultan's position indicates a willingness to waive any potential compensation claims for the 4.5-hectare plot.
Government Sources Pointed to Compensation Issues

Government sources had indicated that the RTS project faced delays attributed to compensation issues concerning the Johor ruler. These sources revealed that in addition to the 4.5-hectare Bukit Chagar land, another 2.4-hectare parcel of undersea land was also transferred to the Sultan for the RTS project. The combined compensation for these lands was estimated at RM694 million, representing approximately 13% of the total project expenditure.
Prime Minister's Stance on Land Use and Ongoing Study

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad stated that the government would assert its right to use the 4.5-hectare Bukit Chagar land for the RTS project if a transfer had indeed occurred. He mentioned that a six-month study was underway to determine the project's future. Dr Mahathir indicated that the government would demand the land's return and noted that any transfer would need to follow due process, as he was relying on press reports rather than a full report regarding the land's alleged transfer to the Sultan.

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Why was the Johor Sultan unaware of land involvement in the RTS project?

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