Ramasamy proposes KTMB work with state govt on Kampung Manis

BUTTERWORTH: Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy has suggested that Kampung Manis landowner, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB), work with the state government on affordable housing development project for the 200 households at the village here.
Speaking at a press conference in DAP Prai service centre here today, Ramasamy, who is also Prai assemblyman, suggested having a joint venture housing development project and invited PR1MA to develop Kampung Manis.
Ramasamy said he would propose the joint venture between the state government and KTMB in the state exco meeting if KTMB agrees with the suggestion.
He also disputed an English newspaper report that the state government had marginalised about 1,000 residents in Kampung Manis. He said his team and the Taman Inderwasih Community Development and Security Committee (JKKK) had tried to assist them as much as they could since 2009.
"We spent a total of RM200,292.35 to carry out various upgrading project, such as expanding drainage and repairing houses, in Kampung Manis from 2009 until 2017.
"I had given financial assistance to 160 households with RM700 for each family. It is untrue that the state government does not take care of them.
"In fact, we are trying our best to assist the residents in Kampung Manis even though they are staying on private land which is owned by KTMB," he told reporters.
Also present were Taman Inderawasih JKKK chairman Datuk Ng Hooi Lai and the secretary K. Jason Raj.
Ramasamy said Seberang Perai Municipal Council (MPSP) could not conduct maintenance, such as collecting garbages, at the village as it was not in its area.