Fuziah: Forceful eviction of illegal farmers in Cameron Highlands regrettable

PETALING JAYA: The Pahang government’s use of force against illegal vegetable farmers in Cameron Highlands was regrettable and should not have happened, especially during the festive season, says Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh.

The Pahang Pakatan Harapan chairman said the state government should have identified land for long-term use for the small-scale farmers.

She said the farmers could then invest in the right equipment for better yields, as well as for the betterment for the country’s economy.

“They can also be trained to use modern technology, as well as good agricultural practices, to avoid the use of illegal pesticides. The Pahang state government should have adopted a win-win approach in this regard, ” she said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24).

Along with her statement on Facebook, she uploaded a video of the authorities, including the police, carrying out their operation against the farmers.

Several people could be seen being dragged by the police.

“I note that the area is a water catchment area but it is more humane to wait for their crops to be harvested before moving them to lots identified by the state government.

“Plus, it's the festive season. And their kids will start school.

"Of course, their harvest is needed to fund their children's schooling early next year, ” said Fuziah, who is also Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department.

According to Malaysiakini, the Pahang state government had on Monday (Dec 24) evicted illegal vegetable farms near Sungai Ichat in Kuala Terla, a water catchment area in Cameron Highlands.

The enforcement operation was jointly carried out by the Pahang Land Office, police and the Federal Reserves Unit (FRU).

The news portal also reported that seven people, including former Padang Serai MP N. Gobalakrishnan, were arrested for protesting the eviction before being released later.