KUALA LUMPUR (June 29): 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) today stressed that the redevelopment of the Kampung Baru's Jamek Mosque is aimed to transform the mosque into a vibrant community centre for Kampung Baru residents.  

 

The controversy surrounded Finance Ministry owned firm said in a statement today that the project was first announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak during his visit to Kampung Baru on Feb 5, 2011.  

 

"Construction works has commenced in 2012," it said, adding the project is scheduled for completion by end-July this year. 

 

"The mosque will serve as a key catalyst for the planned development of Kampung Baru," it added. 

 

1MDB issued the statement after several parties have criticised the government for downplay controversies surrounding 1MDB by announcing the company's funding for the mosque. 

 

Former Umno minister Tan Sri Zainuddin Maidin alleged Najib was "dumbing down" the intellect of Malays by using 1MDB funds for the construction of a mosque in Kampung Baru. 

 

Zainuddin has criticised Najib's decision-making, calling it "illogical".

 

"Why do you want to cover up your own sins by giving 1MDB money to mosques?" he asked.

 

"You are insulting the public when you say that. It's like trying to wipe off your sins," he added.

 

Responding to this, 1MDB said it regretted that various parties had resorted to using the mosque redevelopment project to serve their own agendas.

 

"Yayasan 1MDB has contributed RM20 million towards the mosque redevelopment project from its inception in 2011 to the present day," it said. 

 

It also explained the Kampung Baru mosque redevelopment is one of many CSR activities undertaken by Yayasan 1MDB, working with Malaysians across all races and religions.