Source of funds for better projects
PM: Proceeds from selling not feasible assets can be used for modern ones
SEREMBAN: Government assets located within city centres can be monetised if they are no longer suitable to operate there and the returns could be used to build more modern facilities, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
He said the Government also needs to be more creative in raising funds for its projects as the country’s income is limited.
“And where these assets once stood, we will build facilities which would be the pride of the people,” he said at the opening of the new Sendayan Air Force base near here, built following the closure of the Sungai Besi base in Kuala Lumpur.
Citing an example, he said although there was a lot of history associated with the Sungai Besi base which was opened in 1941 and the country’s first, it was no longer practical.
“Kuala Lumpur has changed so much since the base was opened and today we have so many skyscrapers in the city.
“There is also this issue with flight safety,” he said.
Najib said with the base relocated to Sendayan, the 202ha area was being developed as Bandar Malaysia, a modern project touted as the country’s largest property project.
“We will have a high speed rail station linking Kuala Lumpur and Singapore as well as two MRT stations built in Bandar Malaysia.
“Also, following the closure of the Sungai Besi and Police (Air Wing) bases there, these assets have now been moved to the new Sendayan base as well as seven other centres nationwide,” he said, adding the personnel would also be able to live in bigger and more conducive homes.
During the opening, Najib also thanked 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) for the role it played in the construction of the RM808mil Sendayan Air Force base.
1MDB, he said, forked out RM2.7bil for the relocation of assets from Sg Besi, including the former Air Force and Police Air Wing bases, the construction of facilities and living quarters at the Gong Kedak, Butterworth, Kuantan and Subang air force bases.
The company will also finance the construction of living quarters and upgrade the hangar complex, transportation, maintenance and multipurpose hall at the Subang Police base as well as build a training facility at its centre in Ipoh.
“1MDB, which has been criticised by certain people, has contributed immensely to the nation.
“Can you imagine that before it could get any income, 1MDB had already spent RM2.7bil?” he said.
Najib said the people should not allow themselves to be influenced by certain parties which have blown matters regarding 1MDB out of proportion.
“They are instigating the people to be angry with the Government.
“But if you want to criticise, then you should also mention all the good things done by 1MDB,” he said.
Also present at the opening were Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Armed Forces chief Jen Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor.