KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not entertain opposition to affordable housing projects, including those from "elites", says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar said his administration will not neglect the needs of the city's masses, most of whom are from the bottom and middle-income groups.

"A city's greatness is not defined solely by its impressive landmarks or skyscrapers, but also by the comfort it provides to its people.

"There are always objections to public housing, including this one here in Taman Desa," he said in a speech at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Residensi Suria Madani housing project here.

It has been reported that residents' groups in Taman Desa have opposed the project.

Today, 16 residents' groups wrote to Anwar to object to what they call "excessive development" which has led to traffic congestion. They also said their objections were not taken seriously by the government.

In his speech, Anwar said he had received text messages from his friends who claimed the project would be disruptive and lead to issues of cleanliness.

Anwar said he would ensure all concerns are addressed. He also said the government was "clear" about its approach to housing.

Anwar said there were also proposed developments in affluent areas.

"We should not stop that, it's not an issue. I don't advocate conflict between groups."

Anwar said he has instructed that affordable housing projects in the city be expedited to meet high demand, ensuring they are comfortable and well-equipped with necessary facilities.

"If you delay approvals, costs will increase."

He said companies won't want to incur losses and this could lead to corruption, and house buyers would ultimately have to pay more.

Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Seputeh member of Parliament Teresa Kok.

After the event, Kok told reporters that she appreciated Anwar's efforts to ensure the housing needs of the people are met.

However, she said Taman Desa has already seen 10 new projects comprising 5,887 residential units and that the project launched today will see that number rise to 8,229 units.

"If every home is occupied by four persons, the Taman Desa population will rise by 33,196 people," she said.

"Under PlanMalaysia's community facility planning guidelines, the government would be required to add as many as 288 primary and secondary school classrooms to cope with the population increase."

She also said that based on the guidelines, the government would need to set up an appropriately sized health clinic, build community halls, and increase police presence in the area.

Kok said any population increase must be accompanied by necessary facility upgrades.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/1098262/govt-wont-entertain-opposition-affordable-housing-projects