Federal Territory PPP chairman Datuk A. Chandrakumanan said the redevelopment plan for Menara 2 was timely.

“DBKL needs an iconic building in the city to project a good image. The old building would have to be redeveloped one day and construction costs will only escalate.

“Perhaps, 20 years from now, people will appreciate the wise decision made which has saved millions.

“The facilities in the current building was breaking down. Perhaps, the upgrade was a temporary measure until the redevelopment plan was finalised,” he said.
Socioeconomic consultant Kamaruzaman Ujang also said it was time to replace the former PKNS building.

“DBKL can easily cover the cost and service the loan by renting out DBKL 3 and some office space in the new building,” he said.

Meanwhile, several Kuala Lumpur MPs gathered outside Menara 2 to object to the project.
Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai said the existing building was just renovated last year at a cost of RM10mil.

“The people’s money is clearly not being well spent.

“The mayor says the project will cost only RM300mil but I am sure it will go up,’’ he said.
Tan added that DBKL’s excuse that it lacked funds to pursue projects such as providing pubic housing for city folk has no basis if they are able to invest in the new 57-storey complex.

Wangsa Maju MP Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong questioned why the MPs were not consulted.
Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun said the project was not a priority and having all the departments under one roof would worsen traffic congestion.

Seputeh MP Teresa Kok said the re-evaluation of property rates was done earlier this year as DBKL said it had insufficient funds for infrastructure projects such as building roads.

“DBKL should not spend such a huge amount of taxpayers’ money on something like this,” she said.



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