KUALA LUMPUR, May 10 — With a day before the Kampung Baru Development 2020 Master Plan draft exhibition draws to a close, villagers claimed they were still in the dark over the proposed redevelopment plan for the area.

Residents say they need more information and clarification from Kampung Baru Development Corporation (PKB) to fully understand the development process.

Kampung Atas B village head Abdul Malik Saleh said many were clueless over the project and hoped the authorities would provide more information.  

“Many were unhappy with some of the facilities which had been planned, including the construction of a lake in the area.

“Why is there a need for a lake? It appears as if PKB had already decided on the matter on our behalf,” he said.

Kampung Periuk village head Aziz Arifin claimed the drafting of the plan was done without proper consultation with the people.

“We don't know the true value of our land and the authorities have to come clean  about the matter,” said Aziz.

“We are not against development but the authorities must be transparent and do what is necessary for the benefit of the villagers.”

Residents interviewed by Malay Mail said the authorities should engage with them on the redevelopment plan.

Senan Sadi, 64, a shopkeeper whose family had been living in the village for four generations, said no one has explained the impact of the project on the area.

“We don't know what is going on and not much is being explained to residents.

“Plans to redevelop the village have been talked about since Tun Dr Mahathir (Mohamad) was the prime minister but the authorities are moving too slow,” he said.

Shah Izam,30, said the authorities must ensure only facilities which are required by the residents are built.

“There is no point setting up infrastructure which won't be used by the people as it would end up being a white elephant,” he said.

Another resident, Bakri Mukisan, 60, whosefamily has been living in the area for three generations, said he is worried he would be burdened with the rising cost of living.

“We are unsure if the property value would increase once the village is developed and for someone who has been living here for the last 50 years, I am worried I have to pay more rental.”

Titiwangsa MP Datuk Johari Ghani said he understood the concerns of the residents and had conveyed the message to PKB.

“At the end of the day, it would be the residents who have the final say as they are the land owners,” he said.