KUALA LUMPUR, 3 October 2025 — The High Court today dismissed the appeal filed by 23 Kampung Sungai Baru (Kg Sungai Baru) residents who sought to block enforcement of a vacant possession order involving their homes, which are part of a large-scale redevelopment project in Kampung Baru.

Justice Su Tiang Joo, presiding in chambers, rejected the bid to stay (halt) both the writ of possession issued on 4 June and its execution, which began on 15 July. The court ruled that the process of handing over vacant possession was already ongoing, and therefore a stay would not be appropriate.

The appeal was dismissed with costs set at RM10,000.
However, the judge granted limited relief, allowing residents to formally write to the developer’s legal team to request access for retrieving personal belongings left behind in their former homes.

Lead counsel Datuk Rosal Azimin Ahmad confirmed that the residents intend to file an appeal to the Court of Appeal within the 30-day window provided.

Quick Refresher: The Kampung Sungai Baru Redevelopment Issue

The Kg Sungai Baru redevelopment has been one of the most contentious urban renewal projects in Kuala Lumpur. The plan, approved under the Land Acquisition Act 1960, involves demolishing existing homes in order to make way for new high-rise developments.

While developers and the government argue that the project will bring economic benefits and new housing opportunities, many residents have resisted, citing issues of compensation, transparency, and heritage.

For a deeper dive, read our earlier coverage:
[Quick Facts: The Kampung Sungai Baru Redevelopment Issue in Kuala Lumpur]
[Kampung Sungai Baru Redevelopment: Owners to Receive Homes Worth RM884k to RM8.1m]

What’s Next for Residents?

Although today’s ruling is a setback, the residents can still escalate the matter to the Court of Appeal. If they proceed, the next hearing will determine whether the possession order stands or whether a stay is granted pending further legal review.
In the meantime, enforcement of vacant possession continues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What was the outcome of today’s court case?
The High Court dismissed the residents’ appeal to stay the vacant possession order. The residents were also ordered to pay RM10,000 in costs.

Q2: Can residents still fight the case?
Yes. They have 30 days to appeal to the Court of Appeal.

Q3: Are residents allowed to retrieve belongings from their homes?
Yes. The court allowed residents to write to the developer’s lawyers to request access for retrieving personal items.

Q4: Why is the redevelopment controversial?
Many residents argue that the compensation process has been unfair and that the redevelopment threatens the social fabric and heritage of Kg Baru.

Q5: What compensation packages are being offered?
Owners are expected to receive replacement units valued between RM884,000 and RM8.1 million, depending on size and type. ([Full details here]).