Kuala Lumpur Under BN Was 'Hell,' Claims Politician Criticizing Current Govt's Lack of Development

A Malaysian politician has controversially described Kuala Lumpur under the previous Barisan Nasional (BN) administration as akin to living in 'hell,' a statement aimed at criticizing the current Pakatan Harapan (PH) government's perceived failures in developing the capital. Razlan Rafii, head of UMNO's Seputeh division, cited a Malay Mail report quoting a minister who allegedly made the 'hell' comparison.

“

I have read in Malay Mail that the Minister in charge of the Federal Territories said that life during the Barisan Nasional (BN) era in Kuala Lumpur was like being in hell.

Rafii argues that the PH government has failed to initiate any significant new developments in Kuala Lumpur. He credits BN with major landmarks such as KLCC, TRX, and the Merdeka 118 tower, as well as public transport like the LRT and Monorail. He also claims BN's affordable housing projects are now being rebranded and inaugurated by PH ministers, using the Malay idiom "Lembu punya susu, sapi DAP dapat nama" (The cow gives milk, but the DAP cow gets the credit).

“

Hell for Pakatan Harapan (PH) seeing BN carry out structured development with LRT and Monorail, seeing residents who can find jobs and business opportunities within Kuala Lumpur.

The politician further contends that Kuala Lumpur's safety has deteriorated under PH's governance, citing a drop to third place among the least safe cities in Southeast Asia in 2025. He attributes this decline, along with a significant drop in sales at major shopping centers like TRX, Pavilion, and KLCC due to unfavorable taxation systems, to the current administration's mismanagement. The high cost of living has also reportedly increased pressure on residents.

“

Since taking charge of Kuala Lumpur, she has not been able to carry out a single development; everything is the work of BN.

Rafii also pointed to the frequent changes in ministers responsible for Kuala Lumpur, with three ministers appointed within three years of the PH administration. He suggests this instability hinders effective governance and questions the PH government's ability to manage the city and its people, concluding that Hannah's "delusion" is dangerous for Kuala Lumpur residents and that a fourth minister may be needed.

“

This is what is called 'Lembu punya susu, sapi DAP dapat nama' (The cow gives milk, but the DAP cow gets the credit).