Ramanan to Discuss Kota Damansara Data Center Row in Cabinet

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — The controversial proposed development of a data centre within a residential zone in Kota Damansara is set to be escalated to the Cabinet following mounting safety and welfare concerns raised by local residents.

Sungai Buloh Member of Parliament Datuk Seri R. Ramanan announced today that the matter will be formally brought to the ministerial meeting to debate the critical need for more comprehensive regulatory guidelines and strict placement mechanisms for data centres, especially when situated near residential communities.

“I am not against development or investments that can stimulate the country’s economic growth. However, every development must be based on facts, thorough studies, and meaningful engagement with all stakeholders,” the Human Resources Minister said in a statement.

Ramanan revealed that he had already submitted an official objection letter directly to the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Mayor on Wednesday (July 15) to formally register his firm stance against the project. However, he noted that no official response has been received from MBPJ regarding the submitted objection.

Following direct complaints from the community, the Sungai Buloh Parliamentary Service Centre conducted an independent review and assessment of the proposed development to gain deeper insights into the project’s ramifications.

According to Ramanan, preliminary findings highlighted several critical areas requiring immediate attention. These include site suitability, broader community well-being, the environmental and structural impact on existing local infrastructure, and the long-term quality of life for the residents.

The minister expressed disappointment over the lack of communication, revealing that the parliamentary service centre had never been briefed on the project, nor was it ever included in any stakeholder engagement sessions or discussions concerning the interests of Kota Damansara residents.

“Any large-scale development that may impact the local community should be carried out transparently and inclusively, involving all stakeholders, including the area’s elected representative,” he added.

Reassuring his constituents, Ramanan pledged to continuously monitor the situation closely to ensure that the grievances of Kota Damansara residents are persistently raised at the highest administrative levels until a fair, transparent, and people-centric solution is reached.

“As the Member of Parliament for Sungai Buloh, the interests of the people will always be my priority,” he concluded.

-NMT