10 Arrested After Tense Standoff Over Kampung Jalan Papan Demolitions

PETALING JAYA, Nov 13: Ten individuals, including political activists and local residents, were arrested following a tense confrontation with police during the ongoing demolition of homes in Kampung Jalan Papan, Pandamaran, Klang, on Thursday.

In a statement, Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) said that its secretary-general, M. Sivaranjani, national treasurer Soh Sook Hwa, seven activists, and one resident were detained as they attempted to stop demolition works.

The incident marks the fourth day of demolitions, which began on Monday (Nov 10) to pave the way for a new development project.

PSM added that its deputy chairperson, S. Arutchelvan, and two others were arrested a day earlier (Nov 12) for similar reasons but were released at around 6pm on Thursday.

According to reports, about 20 houses have been demolished so far. Residents claimed that the operation was carried out without proper notice, and many only discovered the demolition when work had already begun.

The situation has sparked concern over the fate of more than 100 families who may lose their homes. PSM and former Klang MP Charles Santiago have urged the Selangor state government to halt the demolitions pending further review.

Earlier, the Selangor government had assured that only unoccupied houses and business premises would be cleared. However, residents later received new eviction notices dated October 27, raising fears that still-occupied homes would also be targeted.

Pandamaran assemblyman Tony Leong Tuck Chee confirmed that the developer had proceeded with demolitions despite a directive from Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari to limit the operation to vacant homes.

“I urge the developer to defer the demolition of occupied homes,” Leong told Media Selangor, adding that initial aid and temporary relocation options were being arranged through the Selangor Housing and Property Board (LPHS).

The standoff at Kampung Jalan Papan highlights growing tensions between developers and long-time residents over land redevelopment projects in Selangor, with activists calling for more transparent and humane eviction processes.