KUALA LUMPUR: The first-ever convention to discuss a nation-wide plan to redevelop overcrowded housing areas will be held next month.
Led by the Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Ministry, the meeting will involve 117 local authorities in the country. They will share their knowledge on problems in areas under their jurisdiction.
Also scheduled to take part in the brainstorming session are representatives of central agencies.
Its minister, Tan Sri Noh Omar, said the convention, which was expected to be held in the second week of January, would be the platform to brainstorm on the redevelopment plan.
“We have to reorganise the (flats and apartments in the) urban areas.
“Previously, we moved those living in squatters into low-cost flats... but now, we are entering into a new phase where these units are no longer able to accommodate the number of occupants. That’s why they need to be redeveloped.”
The convention, Noh said, would also deliberate on the need to draw up a Housing Redevelopment Act that would facilitate the redevelopment plan.
“We might need to have a new Housing Redevelopment Act for tools, like those in Singapore’s Land Acquisition Act 1966, as this will facilitate the process.
“I am sure there will be many obstacles if we do not have a specific law on this... I was made to understand that when Kampung Kerinchi was being developed, there were some quarters who attempted to influence its residents to oppose the idea, with some bringing the matter to court.
“Having a law on this will also protect the people from being on the losing end of deals.”
Noh said, as had been proved in Singapore’s Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme, the redevelopment of outdated housing areas would benefit the people.