Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said he wants the Malays in Kampung Baru to be seen as a community with an economic and social status to be proud of.

He said he did not want Malays to be associated with low social or economic status.

The premier said the Chinese in Malaysia are often associated with Petaling Street, while the Indians are linked with the Brickfields.

"We want to see the Malays here as a successful community," he said in his speech at the 'Mesra Rakyat, Kampong Baru, Legasi Baru' event there today.

He also reminded the residents of Kampung Baru not to easily sell their land because its value is growing and that it will be worth much more with government's concept of development for it.

He also officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for Kampung Baru Housing Legacy project , which includes the construction of a 30-storey block for business, and as well as 41 storeys of affordable apartments under the Kampung Baru City Centre (BCC) programme.

"We have two significant projects, the entrance to Kampung Baru, and the pedestrian paths connecting KBCC and KLCC, which is within 350 metres, I have approved the concept and design, and they will be lined with local trees he said, to the applause of thousands of residents.