FT Ministry seeks up to RM10b to buy over Kampung Baru land
The Federal Territories Ministry said it needs between RM6 billion and RM10 billion to take over land in Kampung Baru to develop the Malay enclave. Minister Khalid Samad explained that the ministry is looking at ways such as issuing municipal bonds, or even borrowing from banks as a means to raise funds for the complicated development of Kampung Baru that faces multiple ownership of land titles. The Kg Baru Development Corp (KBCD) was established in 2012 and the Kampung Baru Detailed Development Master Plan (PITPKB) was launched in 2015, but no major changes had occurred since then. KBCD reportedly has to deal with over 5,000 landowners involving 1,355 lots while dealing with land ownership, titles and even land valuation issues. (Malay Mail)
Three new work packages for Pan Borneo Sabah to be up for tender
The government will tender out three additional work packages under the Sabah portion of the Pan Borneo Highway project “in the near future”, according to the works ministry. This is to expand the implementation of the project in Sabah and is on top of the 12 work packages that are already being implemented. The works ministry also confirmed Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir’s announcement on April 9 that it is taking over the implementation of the Sabah portion of the highway. It said the cabinet had decided to implement the project “conventionally”, in line with the government’s effort to optimise the cost of projects that have high financial implications for the country. A detailed assessment of the entire work package contract is being carried out. (The Edge)
Seacera partners OCR to develop 501-acre Semenyih land
Seacera Group Bhd is partnering with OCR Group Bhd to develop 501.5 acres of land at Semenyih that has RM10 billion GDV. Seacera said as part of the company’s continuous efforts to rehabilitate its financial condition, the board has decided to monetise Seacera’s freehold land, measuring 501.5 acres. The plan will entail the development of landed residential homes, landed commercial shop units, high-rise strata developments, hospitals, schools, hotels and malls, among other components. Seacera’s unit Duta Skyline Sdn Bhd will be entitled to 22% of the GDV for all low-rise landed developments and 18% of GDV for all high-rise strata development. (NST Online)
Price cap on RON95 petrol may be removed
The cap on the price of RON95 petrol may be removed once the government subsidy, which is expected to be limited to recipients of the Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH), comes into effect. Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the government would decide later whether the cap would be maintained or not. In February, the government announced that the price of RON95 petrol would be capped at RM2.08 for all users regardless of any increase in global oil prices. It was reported that the government was looking at introducing a targeted petrol subsidy to benefit BSH recipients, and banking in money directly into the accounts of those eligible each month. “We want to ensure the data is credible – the deserving must be included and those who do not deserve assistance must be removed,” he said. (The Star Online)
Internet connectivity may soon be listed under utilities
The Communications and Multimedia Ministry is proposing for internet connectivity to be listed under utilities on par with water and electricity supply, as part of its efforts to expand broadband penetration nationwide. Its minister Gobind Singh Deo said internet connectivity could be considered a daily necessity in an age where it plays a pertinent role in various aspects of development including the economy. The recent 5G broadband pilot project showcased the significance of data connectivity in everyday use in the fields of agriculture, medicine and transport among others. Gobind said the success of the proposal could also see, among others, internet connectivity or facilities become a requirement in physical developments involving residential or office buildings. (NST Online)
