Flipping through the papers these days can be quite frustrating for me. Why? As an ex-trader in Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, I'm gobsmacked that some selfish parties who oppose the MRT alignment going through Jalan Sultan, are suggesting that the line should go under Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock instead.

Why am I angry? Recent media reports state that 29 privately owned buildings will be demolished to make way for the construction of the MRT stations if the alignment goes under Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock!

How come I was unaware of this? How come anyone working or living in Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock were unaware of this either?

Those opposing the development of the MRT in Jalan Sultan argue that heritage buildings will be demolished if the alignment passes the area.

From my understanding, only three buildings which are owned by the government will be demolished to build the underground station in Jalan Sultan and the tunnelling works will not even affect the private shoplots above ground.

So why is there a need for realignment? The people in Jalan Sultan have nothing to lose! So if we realign to Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, does it mean that our buildings are not considered heritage buildings?

The opponents must certainly think so because they couldn't be bothered if 29 buildings in our area are demolished compared to three government owned buildings in their area.

They must also think that it is fine if our shoplots are demolished and that we lose our primary source of income.

I urge all the Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock residents to speak up and take this matter seriously if the Jalan Sultan folks are still adamant with the realignment.

We must fight relentlessly to safeguard our heritage (Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock) and our rice bowl, whatever the cost. If these irresponsible folks can bring the matter up to the prime minister, so can we, and we will.