Gazettement of villages in Kukusan not politically driven, says Harapan Rakyat president
TAWAU (May 15): The approval process for land surveying and the gazettement of four squatter villages in the Kukusan state constituency will be expedited to ensure formal recognition is granted in the near future.
President of Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah, Tan Sri Liew Yun Fah, stressed that the move is not a political gimmick ahead of the upcoming Sabah state election, as the villagers have resided in the area for over four decades.
'It now depends on the villagers themselves to accelerate their submission of required documentation to the Tawau Land and Survey Department (JTU),' he said.
Liew disclosed that Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor and the State Cabinet have agreed to approve a total of 88.54 acres, covering Kampung Sri Menanti, Airport Lama, Sentosa Block 4 and Kampung Hiltop in Tawau.
'This is the official letter of land approval issued by the Land and Survey Office. Do not insult my intentions. I am here solely to help the people. What we are doing is to ensure that these long-established settlements can remain peacefully without interference,' he told over 500 residents of Kampung Sentosa Block 4 here on Wednesday.
He further explained that once the gazettement is finalised, the villages will be eligible for government assistance, including community halls, road access and the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Housing Aid Programme.
'Some individuals have questioned and criticised the legitimacy of this approval, claiming it cannot be achieved in the near term. Do not incite hatred among the people.
We are sincere in our efforts to help. Let us work together to ensure swift approval so that we can begin long-term planning for the orderly development of these squatter areas in Kukusan,' he said.
Liew added that once gazetted, it would be up to the constituents of Kukusan whether or not to support the current government in the upcoming state election.
'If you feel that the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government has served you well, then continue supporting them to ensure continuity. The government has not dissolved yet, and this approval is in the interest of the people, not for me personally, but for the future of Kukusan residents,' he said.
He also presented a land registration receipt as proof that the gazettement process is underway through the Tawau Land and Survey Office.
'Even when I was not an elected representative, I have always fought for the people's welfare using my own resources to assist those in need.
'What matters most is that the community remains united, regardless of race or religion. Our goal is to eradicate squatter issues in Kukusan once and for all,' he added.
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