KUALA LUMPUR: The residents of Kampung Setia Jaya in Taman Melati, Kuala Lumpur will be allowed to remain in their homes while their relocation matter is being resolved. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa stated that the decision was made following discussions with TARC Education Foundation, the landowner, resulting in a positive outcome.
“Overall, it was a positive discussion, and I am confident the issue can be resolved amicably after it was delayed for 30 years,” she said. TARC Education Foundation has agreed in principle to allow the residents to stay while the issue is being sorted out.
During the meeting, the issue of replacement housing for the residents was also discussed as a matter needing urgent attention. The meeting was attended by Wangsa Maju MP Zahir Hassan and Datuk Azman Abidin, political secretary of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Dr Zaliha emphasized that the replacement housing issue will be discussed further to ensure a swift resolution. She added that the discussion also focused on the issue of house replacement for residents, which will be detailed later.
On Dec 11, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ordered the villagers to vacate their houses within 18 months, due to TARC Education Foundation being recognized as the legal owner of the land on which the village stands.
Separately, Zahir expressed relief at the positive feedback from TARC Education Foundation, stating that residents can now breathe a sigh of relief. He also urged that the issue not be politicized by any party, emphasizing the importance of the residents’ well-being and housing.
