ISKANDAR PUTERI: Property developers should not be allowed to completely flatten the earth when developing hilly areas, says Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.
The Johor Ruler said the local councils must ensure that the original topography of the land was maintained as much as possible for developments that were carried out on hilly and higher grounds.
"If there is a need to cut the hill slope, it should be controlled and done minimally.
"I hope all mayors and presidents of the respective local councils will conduct a thorough research before approving such plans," he decreed when opening the second term of the 15th Johor state assembly sitting at Kota Iskandar here on Thursday (March 16).
His Majesty also urged all councils not to approve developments if the developer fails to provide pedestrian and bicycle lanes in their layout plans, effective immediately.
On a separate issue, Sultan Ibrahim wants the state government to gazette all Orang Asli land as Sultanate land to prevent unscrupulous parties from "doing as they please."
The government had always been taking care of the welfare of the Orang Asli community in Johor by providing aid, developing and equipping their settlements with amenities to make their lives better, he added.
"I am disappointed to learn about certain Orang Asli clearing the forest for major rubber and oil palm plantation activities.
"I believe there are outsiders who are playing a part in this and taking advantage of the rights of the Orang Asli besides trying to claim the 'kawasan rayau' (roaming area), which does not make sense.
"I want to remind everyone that although the Orang Asli are protected by the Constitution, they must also adhere to the existing laws.
"Forest encroachment is an offence and the Orang Asli are not exempted from the law," he said, adding that the state government must take firm actions to safeguard the forest and wildlife.
