SHAH ALAM, Oct 28 — Residents being relocated to make way for new townships under the Selangor Road and Highway Strategic Plan 2026-2035 (JALUR Selangor) must be incentivised to move, said an industry expert.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Graduate School of Business industry adviser Manokaran Mottain said relocating them could be challenging as they may be reluctant to leave familiar surroundings, and adequate incentives like new housing and jobs would be important to facilitate the process.
“The housing projects must be in areas where they can find employment or engage in business activities, among others,” he told Media Selangor.
Manokaran said people could be reluctant to relocate even with good transport infrastructure, as they may prefer to remain in familiar surroundings for the sake of their families.
Meanwhile, he said JALUR Selangor could unlock undeveloped land in the state by improving road connectivity and accessibility.
“This plan will open up a lot of land,” he said, adding that better road access could make previously underdeveloped areas more accessible and create opportunities for further development.
He cited the North-South Expressway (PLUS) as an example of how road infrastructure could open up more areas for development, but stressed that sufficient funding and proper spending are essential for effective results.
“It is a good move, provided the state government has got the money (to implement it) and it is well spent without any leakages.
“If they have the funds to carry out this project, well and good. I would say that Selangor can then develop it and serve as an example for other states,” Manokaran said.
The RM77 billion JALUR Selangor, announced by Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari on September 30, comprises 115 road and highway projects.
The plan aims to strengthen Selangor’s road network, improve access to developing areas, and support economic growth by enhancing connectivity between communities and economy hubs.
