The squatters staying at the council’s dumping site.
SIBU: Sibu Municipal Council deputy chairman Rogayah Jamain wants the relevant authorities to take appropriate action against a family of 10 children who are squatting in a dumpsite along Jalan Seng Ling.
Speaking at the council meeting yesterday, Rogayah said she hoped that the authorities can offer assistance to the families as it was crucial to tackle the issue, especially as they are living in such deplorable conditions and deserve a better quality of life.
She described the situation as shocking as there were children scavenging through rubbish and recyclable items at the dumpsite.
The issue came to light when Sarawak DAP vice-chairman David Wong led his party to the dumpsite three days ago.
David said the place looked like a “rubbish village” because the squatters not only live off the dumpsite but actually live and eat on the dumpsite.
“They are from all over Sarawak, from Kapit, Kanowit, Matu, Daro and Sg. Latap. They are without piped water and electricity supply. Some of the children don’t even attend school as they have to help their parents to dig out whatever “valuables” from the dumpsite,” he said.
He said flies, mosquitoes and even scorpions were seen when he visited the folks there. He questioned what action will the state government do to help the squatters or if they are willing to take up the responsibility or continue to ignore the issue.
He said DAP assemblyman will bring up the issue in the coming Sarawak state legislative assembly in November.
