Kota Kinabalu: The Government’s decision to postpone the Likas River dredging project for the flood mitigation project in Kampung Likas Lama is appropriate.
Darau Assemblyman Azhar Datuk Matussin said the postponement, announced by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, has provided relief to the affected residents.
AdvertisementHe said he decided to raise the issue of demolition notices for residents’ homes based on his responsibility as a representative of the people, not to create political controversy.
“How would we feel if we saw villagers crying, pleading for help, asking their elected representative to do something for them?
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“I never called for villagers to gather and hold banners in protest. What actually happened was the villagers approached me when they saw my presence that day.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“The Government’s concern for the people’s problems is extremely important… I express my appreciation for the State Government’s decision to listen to the people’s voices and, in turn, postpone the project,” he said in a statement.
Azhar said this issue should not be taken lightly and as an elected representative of the people, he could not remain silent when residents suddenly received demolition notices.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});“Such action is taken based on humanitarian factors and the responsibility to protect the fundamental rights of the affected residents.
“These people have lived on this land for over 100 years, passed down from generation to generation, and most of them are fishermen.” There had been no prior discussion on the matter.
“If this project is crucial for flood mitigation, it must be carefully planned so as not to burden the people.
“Parti Warisan does not oppose development, but we must ensure that no one is oppressed in the process,” he said.
He reaffirmed Warisan’s commitment to reviewing this project, especially concerning the flood mitigation plan, from the people’s perspective.
“Warisan will work with technical experts, NGOs and community representatives to reassess the flood mitigation project plan.
“Our main focus is to find a balanced solution between infrastructure needs and the rights of residents,” he said.
Azhar said the review would prioritise two key aspects: first, the effectiveness of the drainage system in reducing flood risks, and second, the protection of existing homes.