Land commissioner has grounds to execute KL Tower takeover - Fahmi

Summary

• Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil defends federal land commissioner’s move to enforce an eviction on KL Tower’s former operator, Menara Kuala Lumpur Sdn Bhd.

• Fahmi says new concession management took over since April 1.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has defended the federal lands commissioner’s move to enforce an eviction on KL Tower’s former operator, Menara Kuala Lumpur Sdn Bhd (MKLSB), past midnight today.

Speaking during a press conference at Angkasapuri, Fahmi reiterated that KL Tower is fully owned by the government, and the new concession management has taken over since April 1.

“Based on various reasons, some reported by the media and others unreported, there are grounds for the land commissioner to enforce the takeover.

“We have gone through the process to facilitate the entry of the new concession,” said Fahmi.

Previously, the Communications Ministry announced that KL Tower would be temporarily closed to visitors starting today to enforce the takeover.

Maintenance and repair

Fahmi said the temporary closure is to allow for maintenance and repair works, as there are facilities and structures in poor condition.

He said his ministry team identified the poor condition during a recent visit, as well as similar complaints received from the public.

“Based on videos and pictures, much of the equipment, including that at the revolving restaurant and in its kitchen, is not in good or pleasant condition for visitors.

“In fact, there are some railings at the upper decks that were lowered. To me, this is very concerning.

“For the safety of visitors, we are asking the new company (operating the tower) to carry out immediate maintenance and repairs,” he said, adding that the government would update the public once the tower was safe to reopen.

Fahmi said the team was of the view that several safety measures must be carried out after the previous company moved out with their assets and equipment.

“The new company will ensure the safety and well-being of KL Tower’s visitors,” he added.

Separately, lawyers acting for MKLSB and Hydroshoppe Sdn Bhd announced that they have been instructed to initiate committal proceedings against those involved in this forcible takeover.

“We urge the ministry and Land Commissioner not to worsen the situation by handing over Menara KL to LSHSM as the matter has already been referred to the court,” said the letter issued by law firm Rosli Dahlan Saravana.

The letter dated today named Fahmi, as well as Federal Land Commissioner Azmi Mohd Zain, as the intended recipients.

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