Kampung Selayang Baru

Hidden within the urban sprawl of Kuala Lumpur, Kampung Selayang Baru whispers a story of resilience. Kampung Selayang Baru wasn’t always here. It began as a haven, a sanctuary carved from a 47-acre rubber plantation. In 1951, during the Malayan Emergency, families were relocated here for safety. They were seeking refuge from the communist insurgency, leaving behind their old lives in Kampung Sungai Tua Lama. Imagine them, carrying their meager belongings, their faces etched with uncertainty, stepping onto this land that would become their new home. Kampung Selayang Baru became a symbol of their strength, a testament to their ability to rebuild and create community in the face of adversity. The original inhabitants of Kampung Sungai Tua Lama were of Malay descent, tracing their roots back to Sumatra. Some hailed from Pariaman or Bukit Tinggi, while others came from Teluk Cempedak and Mandaheleng. They brought with them their traditions, their stories, and their dreams of a peaceful future. Upon their arrival in Kampung Selayang Baru, each family received a 4,000 square foot plot of land. This land, once part of the Siun Estate, became the foundation upon which they built their new lives. The name itself, Kampung Selayang Baru, translates to “New Selayang Village”. It’s a direct reference to its purpose as a replacement for their former village. Kampung Sungai Tua Lama, submerged beneath the waters of the Batu Dam, is a poignant reminder of what they left behind. A school, a mosque, a cemetery – all lost to the rising waters. The leadership of Kampung Selayang Baru has passed through the hands of several dedicated individuals. From Mohd Zin bin Normin in 1951 to Mej (B) Hj Ramly Jamaluddin in 2008, each leader has played a crucial role in shaping the community we see today. Kampung Selayang Baru has thrived, growing into a vibrant community of approximately 3,500 people, with 575 houses nestled within its borders. It’s a predominantly Malay community, with nearly 98% of its residents identifying as Malay, and a significant portion working in government positions. Bound by Kampung Nakhoda, Taman Jasa, Selayang Baru itself, and Ulu Yam, this small village holds a big history. As you stand here, on the edge of Kampung Selayang Baru, remember the story of its birth. It is a story of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of the people who call this place home.