SABAH needs to set a target to solve squatter settlement problems in this state and achieve zero squatters.
Nominated Assemblyman, Dr Aliakbar Gulasan, said squatter issue is very serious problem, especially for the municipality.
He said squatters are illegal settlements that might affect the direction of good development such as electricity and water supply thefts as well as security-related issue.
“The purpose of raising this issue is not to demolish the squatter settlements but to manage them so that our developments are in order.
“Sabah needs to set targets to deal with squatters. What is more unfortunate is that some of the land occupied by the squatters belong to the state and government agencies. I consider this as serious matter,” said Aliakbar in his debate at the State Assembly sitting.
According to Aliakbar, he had received a written answer to his original question on the squatter issue and thanked the government for the short and long term plans on this matter.
However, he said the State Government still needs to set a specific period to achieve zero squatter.
He also suggested the government put up a proper plan for basic facilities is in line with the increase in new developments.
He said Sabah is heading for more rapid development. Therefore, the planning of basic facilities needs to be in line with new developments for impact on increased consumption, especially water, electricity and use of roads.
Aliakbar said the government should set up a regulation that obliges the development of new housing to provide infrastructure such as halls, schools, houses of worship and surau or mosques.
On the 2024 Budget, Aliakbar said the second largest budget allocated to the Ministry of Public Works, amounting to RM1.03 billion, was important to meet the needs of the people.
He said it would improve connectivity between the rural and the market areas.
“I understand that many parties and agencies are involved in this matter. Not only JKR but also the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Rural Affairs and I am sure many other agencies are involved.
“The government must take serious initiatives to give our people the opportunity to cultivate the land in their residential areas.
“I am confident that our people are very productive and capable of developing land for farming and agriculture,” he said.
Aliakbar also emphasized the importance of leaders being fair not only to supporters but also to all people regardless of religion, race or where they live.
Development, he said, should cover not only the city but also rural areas.
“There should not be any abuse of power, corruption or anything similar to it because it all leads to sin.
“The goal of joining politics is not to become rich but to contribute to society and the people. If you want to be rich, become a businessman as the goal of a businessman is to become rich.
“There should never be double-standard in the implementation of development. All Sabahans deserve the overflow of development,” he added.
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