Get developers to pay back PKNS, Bukit Botak settlers told

SHAH ALAM: Bukit Botak settlers must get a developer to pay back RM48 million incurred by the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) to build roads in the area if they object to land acquisition by the
state government.

Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said the amount spent by PKNS for the infrastructure work would be written off if the settlers allow the land to be acquired by the state government.

"The settlers do not appreciate efforts made by the state government to solve the quagmire.
"Many problems cropped up in the Bukit Botak (housing) project when the original developer could not solve the issue," he told reporters after attending the White Winter Christmas celebration at I-City in Section 7 here today.
About 1,400 Bukit Botak settlers have been waiting for ten years to own a home after signing an agreement with the developer.

Abdul Khalid said among the problems, included some settlers, who claimed that they were landowners, did not have land titles. "The settlers had signed a construction agreement with the original developer and it could only be dissolved if the state government acquire the land.

"It is better that the state government solve the issue rather than the developer as it had abandoned the project.
"If they still have confidence in the developer, look for him and ask him to pay back RM48 million to the PKNS," he added.

In a statement on Dec 21, 2009, the state government said the acquisition would give the state government total control on the development of Bukit Botak over Delpuri Corporation Sdn Bhd, which was given the power of attorney by residents in 1999. - Bernama