He said that when the plan was brought up for consultation, there was resistance from those already living in comfort and luxury who did not want their lifestyle disrupted.

“When we finalise this plan, it’s inevitable that it won’t please everyone. When we try to introduce public housing within the existing constraints, we face resistance – especially from the elite, who are reluctant to be disturbed.

“In such limited circumstances, they feel pressured. Of course, we should engage and listen to them.

“But I want to stress this: from our experience implementing several Madani development projects, many objections come from the elite. So I ask them to understand (the broader objective) and give their support,” he said during the launch of PTKL.

Also present were federal territories minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa and Nga Kor Ming, the housing and local government minister.

Anwar also gave his assurance that the more structured development under PTKL would not sideline the less privileged, including small traders.

“We must rebuild Kuala Lumpur. We want the lower-income group to feel that they are also citizens of this city, not outcasts living on the fringes of the capital.

“Believe me, the most powerless group in any area – those with the least ‘influence’ – are the very ones for whom political leaders must ensure justice,” he added.

PTKL is a legally binding plan that will guide the Kuala Lumpur mayor in managing and regulating the city’s future development.

On Jan 30 last year, Zaliha urged all parties – including representatives from government agencies, the private sector, industry, NGOs, and residents – to participate in public hearings on the draft plan.

She said everyone was welcome to contribute their views, suggestions, and ideas on the draft plan, before it is reviewed by the relevant committee and officially gazetted this year.