FORMER Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli has dismissed PAS claim that the unrest in Kampung Sungai Baru is a preview of the upcoming Urban Renewal Act (URA), calling the opposition’s stance irresponsible.
He pointed out that PAS is now contesting the redevelopment project despite having been in government when it was approved.
“That is not responsible. Let’s say, with the next elections in 2 years, suddenly, PAS wins. Do you think PAS will say the same thing? Just like how they flipped Kampung Sungai Baru issue, from PAS in government and the government approved the take-over and all of this happened right under their nose,” he said.
“And they think URA is like that, saying Kampung Sungai Baru is a teaser etc, but boom, they become the government, they will carry on with the project,” Rafizi added in his latest edition of Yang Berhenti Menteri.
Rafizi also said if PAS argues that Kampung Sungai Baru is a teaser for the URA, others could counter by saying that is exactly why the URA is necessary.
Without a proper framework or special provisions to safeguard residents’ rights, developments risk leading to disputes and dissatisfaction, as seen in Kampung Sungai Baru. One way or another, urban redevelopment is inevitable and will take place in several areas.
From his perspective, politicians should not fall into the trap of being merely populist.
“We must respect the rule of law. Once a court has delivered its decision, the government is obliged to enforce it, failing to do so would expose the government to lawsuits, which ultimately burden the people as well. That is why it is crucial to resolve such issues early, before they escalate into court battles,” he said, pointing out that politicians should not ride on the people’s misery. —Sept 14, 2025
Main image: Bernama
