Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak says the proposed Warisan Merdeka project will be a boon to all Malaysians.
"The 100-storey building will be the latest landmark in Kuala Lumpur and will bring great economic benefits to both Bumiputeras and non-Bumiputeras," he said.
"It will not be a waste," he said when asked to comment on charges by some quarters that the tower project, announced during the tabling of the 2011 Budget, would be a waste of public funds.
Speaking to reporters after briefing the 2,500-odd delegates attending the 61st Umno general assembly in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, Najib said the tower, which would be the country's tallest, surpassing the Petronas Twin Towers by 22 floors, was proposed by Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), which felt strongly that it would bring great benefits.
"The tower idea did not come from me, but was proposed by PNB's board of directors which felt it was viable. I did not direct PNB on the matter."
Najib said the tower would be a symbol of a modern and developed Malaysia in addition to creating many economic spin-offs.
It would also be a major commercial hub for both Bumiputeras and non-Bumiputeras.
On his critics, Najib said it was expected.
"When Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad proposed the Penang Bridge, many criticised him. He was also attacked when he proposed the Petronas Twin Towers. In the case of the bridge, the people of Penang now want a second bridge," he said.
By Business Times
