Federal Agencies Approve Revised PJD Link Highway Alignment: Selangor’s Decision Awaits
The proposed Petaling Jaya Dispersal Link (PJD Link) highway has taken a significant step forward, with federal agencies giving their nod to the revised alignment proposed by PJD Link (M) Sdn Bhd, the project developer. However, the Selangor state government now holds the final say on whether the project will proceed.
Federal Approval and Selangor’s Role
Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung revealed during a briefing by the parliamentary select committee on infrastructure, transportation, and communication that the Cabinet had agreed on May 8 to allow the developer flexibility in submitting a new alignment proposal. This revised plan has now received federal agency approval.
“The ball is now in the Selangor government’s court to decide whether the project will proceed or otherwise,” Lee said at a press conference in Parliament.
Public Opposition and Political Promises
The PJD Link project has faced staunch opposition from residents and political representatives in Selangor. Before the state elections last year, the Selangor government pledged to scrap the project, citing concerns over its social and environmental impact.
“Any attempt to secure approval, even with minor amendments, would be a betrayal of both policymakers and the public,” Lee emphasized, urging the Selangor government to honor its promise to cancel the project.
Costs and Concessions
A key contention in the debate has been the cost implications of canceling the PJD Link project.
- Compensation Claims: Taman Medan assemblyman Dr. Afif Bahardin previously claimed that scrapping the project would result in a compensation payment of RM100 million.
- Government Clarification: Lee refuted these claims, stating that the cancellation, as stipulated in the concession agreement, would not incur any cost to the public.
History of Rejections
The project was previously halted in 2022 when Selangor menteri besar Amirudin Shari announced the state’s decision to scrap it. The decision followed unsatisfactory findings from the developer’s impact assessment reports, including the social impact assessment.
Additionally, on April 17, unity government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil stated that the federal government would not proceed with the project after the developer failed to meet six of 11 conditions set by the government.
Calls for Transparency
Subang MP Wong Chen has called for greater transparency regarding the project’s revised proposal, particularly:
- Cost Breakdown: Detailed information on land acquisition costs and total construction expenses.
- Revenue Projections: Clear estimates for the 48-year concession period to ensure the public understands potential toll costs and overall financial implications.
“These figures are crucial to provide clarity and accountability, especially as the project may significantly impact public funds and commuters,” Wong said.
The Way Forward
The future of the PJD Link now rests on the Selangor government’s decision. This moment presents an opportunity for the state to align with its earlier commitment to cancel the project, especially since federal agreements indicate no financial penalty for doing so.
Residents and stakeholders await clarity, not just on the Selangor government’s stance but also on the implications of the revised alignment, should the project proceed.
Conclusion
The PJD Link highway continues to spark debates over development priorities, public costs, and political accountability. Whether Selangor opts to proceed or cancel, the decision will have long-lasting implications for the region’s infrastructure and governance.
