New KL mayor must submit KL20 local plan, 14.12.2006.

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw hopes that the new Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Abdul Hakim Borhan has a globalised mind, resisting all party polictical pressure and developing KL into a world-class tropical city of light.

Dr Tan comments on the announcement by the Federal Territories Minister Datuk Zulhasan Rafique that Abdul Hakim (55) would replace Datuk Ruslin Hassan as KL mayor yesterday for two years. The former was the Secretary-General at the ministry and the latter had served the City Hall KL for 32 years.

Ruslin had worked hard, seeing changes in the city. He should continue to contribute to the society.

Abdul Hakim has a heavy responsibility. Once he takes up the post, he should submit the local plan of KL20 as soon as possible. The structural plan was announced over a year ago. It aims to make KL a world-class city.

First, the new KL mayor must resist party political pressure, acting in the interest of city folks.

Secondly, CHKL has been working on zero squatter for the city. The date has been deferred a few times. 2007 is the latest year to achieve the target. Abdul Hakim must be fair to all when implementing the policy.

Thirdly, the Housing Development and related bills were passed in the Dewan Rakyat two days ago. The mayor must enforce the laws on housing development, highrise flats and strata titles, consistent with the wishes of the people. It will take time to solve the housing mess taht has piled up for several years.

Fourthly, we must have more closed circuit television (CCTV) to control traffic and security. We need many measures such as multi-storeyed interchanges like the proposed interchange at the 7th Mile Kepong to alleviate traffic jams. Tackling increasing crimes is of immediate concern.

Fifthly, we must preserve all green lungs and maintain effectively all parks, eradicating trespassers.

CHKL is required to look at wide-ranging aspects. The ones mentioned above constitute only a part. We shall continue to put forwards our views and suggestions.

Tan Seng Giaw