This article explores the recent land swap between the Crown Prince of Johor (TMJ) and the Singapore government, addressing the online commentary and providing historical context to the situation. Many people questioned how the Crown Prince came to own such a significant piece of land in Singapore, prompting a deeper look into the story.
TMJ's Land Ownership: Clarifying the Facts
Firstly, it's important to clarify that the land in question belongs to TMJ in his private capacity as a legal landowner. It is not owned by the Malaysian or Johor government. TMJ, whose full name is Tungku Ismail Ibrahim, is the eldest son of the Sultan of Johor, who is currently the Agong (King) of Malaysia.
TMJ's Prominence Beyond Land Ownership
TMJ is well-known as the owner of the Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) football club. He took over the club around 2013, and since then, JDT has achieved remarkable success, winning 11 consecutive Malaysian league titles. In 2015, they also won the AFC Cup, the second-tier continental club competition in Asia. JDT is now recognized as a top club in Malaysia with world-class facilities.
The Historical Roots of TMJ's Land in Singapore
The land's history dates back to the late 1800s when TMJ's ancestor, Sultan Abu Bakar, purchased approximately 30 hectares of land from an Englishman named Napier. At the time, Singapore was still a British colony.
The Palaces and Subsequent Abandonment
Initially, two palaces, Istana Tyersall and Istana Woodneuk, were built on the land. These palaces served as residences, including for one of the Sultan's wives. Over the next 150 years, the palaces fell into disrepair, with one reportedly damaged by fire. Today, the site is described as overgrown and neglected.
Inheritance and Undeveloped Potential
The land was passed down through generations, with Sultan Iskandar, TMJ's grandfather, eventually bequeathing it to him. The land's prime location in Singapore's Holland Road area, if developed, could make TMJ a multi-billionaire. Despite this potential, the land remained largely undeveloped for generations.
The Recent Land Swap Deal
The recent land swap involves TMJ returning a portion of the original land (Plot C, where the abandoned palaces are located) to the Singapore government. In return, the Singapore government granted TMJ 8.5 hectares of land (Plot A).
Implications and Potential Developments
It is believed that TMJ now has permission to develop Plot A. He will likely partner with a Singaporean property developer to build low-rise, luxury condominiums on the land. Prices could potentially reach high levels, given the freehold status and prime location. It is speculated that the Singapore government may restore the historical palaces on Plot C and integrate them into the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Conclusion: A Story of Intertwined History
This land swap represents an interesting intersection of Singaporean and Johorean history. The story highlights the close historical ties between Johor and Singapore and TMJ's status as one of the "crazy rich Asians" with a significant stake in Singaporean land.
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