KUALA LUMPUR – Bersatu’s Gombak Setia assemblyman Hilman Idham was the one who expedited the demolition of Kg Sri Makmur years ago, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
“I can say that in 2018 or 2019…who pursued me to expedite the demolition? None other than Hilman, because he knew the situation and circumstances there.”
Amirudin said this while explaining that the demolition was necessary to make way for development, which included housing for the people.
“We undergo this process with diligence. The (state) government must proceed (with the demolition) because many unwanted incidents occur here – such as the presence of foreigners.
“Development is also needed. A part of it is for housing for the people,” he told reporters after an event at Seri Selangor Golf Club today.
Yesterday, Hilman condemned the state government’s actions as inhumane and expressed his solidarity with the affected families following the demolition.
Scoop also spoke to several residents, who similarly claim that many of the homeowners there rent out their houses to foreigners.
Amirudin was responding to a question whether the eviction of Kg Sri Makmur’s residents was “extreme”, despite them having lost court cases and lacking locus standi.
He said the government had given the residents ample time to relocate, adding that the residents had to prove their original residency status.
“We have given them opportunities for a long time. Last year, and even two to three years ago – including their last plea to (leave) after Aidilfitri, which we have fulfilled.
“We gave them time to provide proof for several terms set out by Lembaga Perumahan dan Hartanah Selangor and local councils.
However, the rest (of the residents) were not able to prove as how the 21 families did,” he said, referring to the residents who received an offer for housing under Rumah Selangorku.
Nonetheless, Amirudin said the state government was ready to review what is needed to help the residents.
He added that the housing offer would only be given to residents who could prove that they are the original residents to get placements and not other forms of compensation. – May 30, 2024