COMMENT | At the outset, let me declare that I have campaigned and supported residents in their objections to unplanned development in their areas.

I have demanded transparency in the approval processes and held open discussions (sometimes loud but not rude) with officials of local authorities.

These views were held in support of the greater good of the community and not for parochial and self-centred interests.

As long as such projects meet the legal requirements and the mandatory safety measures are in place, there should be nothing to object to.

I have also chided those (including friends) who choose to ignore the interests of the poor and needy when it comes to affordable housing.

Twenty years ago, residents in Subang Jaya opposed the construction of low-cost flats in the neighbourhood, citing among others social problems and the value of their properties.

At about the same time, some Kenny Hill residents objected to the area's high-rise buildings.

The then-mayor Elyas Omar provided the perfect riposte: “Bukit Tunku was not meant for the Brahmins only. Aren’t others interested in...