THE Federal Territories Ministry will not stop anyone from offering higher prices for Kg Baru land as long as ownership remains in the hands of Malays.

Its minister, Khalid Abdul Samad, said this today in welcoming Malay Chamber Of Commerce Malaysia (MCCM) secretary-general Amirhamzah Karim’s remarks that a fairer price for Kg Baru land would be RM2,000 per sq ft instead of the RM850 initially offered by the ministry. 

“I hope this is the collective view of the MCCM and that it is based on a professional assessment.

“In this regard, I welcome it if MCCM would endeavour to ensure Kg Baru land is bought at RM2,000 per sq ft,” Khalid said in a statement today.

“I am confident that the MCCM can get the financial support needed to make the purchase successful, based on professional evaluations.”

Khalid said that if the MCCM was serious about extending a RM2,000 per square foot offer, he would ensure that the ministry and Kg Baru Development Corporation give their full cooperation to enable MCCM to do so.

“I am confident that MCCM’s aspiration will receive the full cooperation of Kg Baru landowners or their next-of-kin,” Khalid said. 

Putrajaya’s initial offer of RM850 per sq ft to the landowners had been met with derision, as many claimed the amount was far below market price.

The government, alongside the Kg Baru Development Corporation, is in the midst of ironing out a redevelopment plan for the Malay enclave in the heart of the Malaysian capital, which so far includes 10 components, including 11.3ha of heritage and cultural parks. – Bernama, September 28, 2019.