Former Batu Estate workers have succeeded in getting the attention of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) over the planned demolition of their homes.
After holding a picket outside the DBKL headquarters, all 50 of them were allowed into the building this morning to hold talks with officials.
Accompanied by PKR vice-president S Surendran and Segambut member of parliament Lim Lip Eng, the residents will attempt to persuade DBKL to call off the demolition which is set for Thursday.
The residents had gathered at DBKL in Jalan Raja Laut about 10.30am, chanting and carrying placards. They vowed to embark on a hunger strike if their demands are not met today.
The site of their houses has been acquired by private developer Mayland Sdn Bhd, and DBKL is invoking the Emergency Ordinance 1969 to assist with the eviction of the residents.
“It is totally unlawful to use such a law to demolish their homes. The only way to resolve this conflict is through court proceedings,” Surendran said.
“The deputy secretary of DBKL had last week promised to (respond) but we have not heard anything up to today.”
C. Khor
CJMY
