KUALA LUMPUR – Bersatu’s Gombak Setia assemblyman Hilman Idham has denied Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari’s accusation that he was the one who expedited Kg Sri Makmur’s demolition years ago.
Speaking to Scoop, Hilman, instead pointed his finger at Amirudin, alleging that the latter is merely lying to cover up his misdeeds.
“I never called for the demolition in 2018. As the Gombak Setia assemblyman, I want developments which can improve citizen’s welfare and quality of life, particularly squatters in Kg Sri Makmur.”
He added that while residents in the affected area were prepared to move out after they were promised adequate compensation by the state government, Amirudin had “cruelly” backtracked on his promise.
“The court stipulated that eviction and demolition works could be carried out between May 27 to May 31.
“However, residents only received their compensation last Friday (May 24) before their homes were demolished on Monday (May 27) without compromise,” Hilman said.
“How do you feel as a menteri besar when you see women being roughed up? When elderly citizens are beaten and small children are left crying because of the trauma?” he claimed.
“Do you not have a heart or any feelings?”
He added that as a representative elected by the people, he has no desire to continue seeing Malays squatting.
“They need protection from the government. They should be given a proper living environment which could improve their economy and health.”
Yesterday, Amirudin said “in 2018 or 2019”, Hilman had pursued him to expedite Kg Sri Makmur’s demolition as the latter “knew the situation and circumstances” affecting the area.
The menteri besar said this while explaining that the demolition was necessary to make way for development, which included housing for the people.
He also said the government had given the residents ample time to relocate, adding that the residents had to prove their original residency status.
Amirudin said this when responding to a question on whether the eviction of Kg Sri Makmur’s residents was “extreme”, despite them having lost court cases and lacking locus standi.
Hilman had previously 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 claimed that many of the homeowners there rent out their houses to foreigners. – May 31, 2024