The prime minister's rousing pledge to stop the 29-storey condominium project planned next to Batu Caves has only strengthened the Selangor government’s resolve to “undo the previous BN government's negligence”.

NONEIn a statement today, Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said the Pakatan Rakyat-led state government will not only correct BN's mistakes, it will also bring those responsible for “negligence and abuse” to justice.

“The people of Selangor must weigh the PM's ‘promise’ carefully, considering that it was the BN-led Selangor government which approved the project,” he said.

“We put the people's interests first and will not hesitate to take any party to justice, if any form of negligence or abuse is found.”

NONEKhalid also said it was “unprofessional” of premier and BN head Najib Abdul Razak (right) to vow to cancel the project if the BN wrests power from Pakatan in Selangor in the upcoming general election.

He said this clearly shows that Najib is merely seeking popularity and has no interest in solving the problem.

“His statement ... has a negative impact on good governance and integrity ... as the cancellation of any (approved) project must follow procedures,” noted Khalid.

“Najib's behaviour has motivated the Selangor government to administer (the state) in a more professional, transparent and responsible manner compared to the inconsistent BN.”

Head of review panel appointed

Khalid announced that the state government will appoint former Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) director N Sadasivan to chair a committee that will review the condominium project.

NONESadasivan was chosen as he is experienced in matters of management, and has held directorships in prominent organisations like Bank Negara Malaysia, Danaharta Nasional Bhd and Petronas.
“He will be assisted by several committee members, to be announced at a later time, consisting of professionals and independent parties who will assist the government in handling this issue,” he said.

Selangor town and country planning department deputy director Norasiah Bee will act as the committee secretary, while the department will provide any assistance required.

“I will meet with Sadasivan and the other committee members this week to inform of them of this decision,” Khalid said.

Among others, he said, the committee will review all development projects that have been completed and planned in the Batu Caves area, taking into consideration community well being, Hindu interests, environment and prevailing regulations.

“The state feels that this committee will be able to add value to the effort to have the Batu Caves listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site,” he added.