Editor’s clarification: Jelutong reclamation article

The recent article, “Jelutong Reclamation Threatens Coastal Heritage,” published on 28 April 2025, detailed the proposed 70-acre sea reclamation at Jelutong, raising significant community concerns.

The Protect Karpal Singh Drive Action Committee (ProtectKarpal) has highlighted inaccuracies in the article’s portrayal of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between PLB Engineering Berhad and China Railway Engineering Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd (CRECM).

This clarification ensures readers understand the non-binding nature of the MOU and the accurate allocation of land shares, reinforcing trust in reporting on Jelutong’s critical issues.

The original article stated: “PLB gains 75% of the 90-acre landfill and 70% of reclaimed land for rehabilitation work, with China Railway Engineering Corporation (CRECM) funding RM1.01 billion in exchange for 90% of PLB’s share.”

ProtectKarpal clarified that this misrepresented the MOU’s terms, potentially misleading readers about the project’s status.

Firstly, in Malaysian practice, an MOU is a non-binding framework outlining preliminary intentions, pending formal contract negotiation.

It does not create enforceable obligations or confirm any transfer of funds or land. The article’s wording suggested a finalised deal, which is inaccurate at this stage.

Secondly, ProtectKarpal noted the MOU specifies CRECM would fund RM1.01 billion in rehabilitation works in exchange for 90% of PLB’s entitled land.

The article’s phrasing, referencing CRECM receiving “90% of PLB’s share,” inverted the parties’ roles and implied PLB had secured specific acreage, which is not the case.

ProtectKarpal stressed in the press release that the MOU’s terms await final contract execution and have not materialised.

We regret any confusion caused by the original wording. Our commitment to rigorous standards ensures coverage reflects the complexities of Jelutong’s community issues, fostering constructive dialogue.

We encourage readers to contact ProtectKarpal for further details or visit our website for updates on Jelutong’s reclamation discussions.