SANDAKAN: Residents of Kg Gayan Sibugal here are urged not to be influenced by outsiders seeking to exploit and politicise the proposed demolition of houses built on reserve land in the village.
Sungai Manila Community Development Leader (PPM) Rahmat Iskandar said villagers should channel any concerns or grievances directly to the Sungai Manila Community Development Leader Unit (UPPM) rather than rely on information from external parties.
“If there are any issues, inform us or bring them to our attention and we will refer them to the relevant authorities,” he said.
He said certain individuals from outside the area had attempted to politicise the matter despite a consensus already being reached among stakeholders.
According to Rahmat, the issue was resolved following a meeting he chaired on June 5.
The meeting was attended by village headman Muksan Mijul, Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairman Adisil Komong, police representatives, enforcement officers and officials from relevant government agencies.
Rahmat said all parties reached a mutual agreement during the discussion.
“The matter was thoroughly discussed and a collective decision was reached. However, the issue has since been politicised by certain parties.
“We view this as a deliberate attempt to politicise the matter even though a consensus has already been achieved,” he said.
Under the agreement, 50 houses built on reserve land will be demolished in accordance with the prescribed procedures.
Rahmat said only one family had applied for a temporary relocation site, and the request was approved by the village headman.
Checks by the authorities found that most affected homeowners already had alternative residences within the village.
Three families were identified as having homes in a temporary settlement area, while two others had moved in with their parents. Another family has been temporarily accommodated on land owned by the village JKKK secretary.
Rahmat also dismissed allegations that residents were required to pay fees to disconnect water and electricity supplies.
“We have contacted the Water Department and Sabah Electricity, and both agencies have denied the allegations,” he said.
He advised residents to remain vigilant and contact UPPM Sungai Manila or the relevant authorities for clarification on matters related to the demolition exercise.