MACC warns those involved in Cameron Highlands illegal land encroachment

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has cautioned those involved in illegal land encroachment in Cameron Highlands, saying that it views allegations of corruption seriously.

"MACC will also not compromise with any parties involved with corruption or abuse of power that has caused the issue of illegal land encroachment to recur," said deputy chief commissioner Datuk Seri Azam Baki. 

He added that this should not be a reoccurring issue.

In a statement on Monday (Oct 22), Azam urged the authorities to enforce laws in Cameron Highlands to prevent further land encroachment.

He said more enforcement like Ops Gading, an operation to combat illegal land encroachment activities to prevent mud floods and landslides, should be implemented.

"Legal action will be taken under the jurisdiction of MACC to tackle issue of corruption," he said. 

He added that from 2015 to date, MACC has arrested 23 individuals and charged 11 individuals for various offences related to illegal land encroachment in Cameron Highlands.

"MACC urges the public with information on corruption activities involving cases of land intrusion and illegal plantation in Cameron Highlands to report directly to the nearest MACC office," he said.

Azam was responding to a report from Utusan Malaysia, alleging that widespread corruption have led to the reoccurrence of land exploitation for the purpose for illegal plantations.