“The project does not make sense after the cost of construction is taken into account.

“That’s why it isn’t surprising that many people are sceptical with the methodology used by Khazanah Nasional Berhad and the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) to calculate the cost, as they are justifying such a high cost,” he said in a Facebook posting.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Najib Razak announced the building of the Taman Tugu project, to be situated on a 26.7 hectare site behind Tugu Negara (National Monument). The project also aims to propel Kuala Lumpur into a world class city.

Khazanah Nasional Berhad is set to fund 75 per cent (RM500 million) of the project’s cost.

Khalid said: “…to get a clearer picture, I contacted one of my old friends, Haji Ali Ahmad, who has 30 years’ experience in the setting-up and management of plantations under Guthrie.”

“According to him, clearing costs, land levelling, and the care of palm oil trees cost around RM21 million every 1,000 hectares or only RM21,000 per hectare.”

He pointed out that the entire budget allocated for the park, including its construction should not be so high.

“It should not be so costly because there is no land cost involved, the land is ‘free’ because it has been given by the government.”

Khalid urged for an open discussion to be held by the relevant authorities with all stakeholders before work on the Taman Tugu project begins.

“Our bitter experience in leakages, wastages, and the misuse of public funds should serve as a lesson to all of us.

“The mistakes of the past should not be repeated if we are serious about improving the country and the livelihood of the people.”