KOTA KINABALU: Evictions of villagers should take into account the welfare of the people affected, says Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.
The former chief minister said the ongoing operations in the state were disappointing and made life inconvenient for the Malaysians who have been staying there for decades.
”Even if there is a need to evict these people, and notice of evictions had been given, where are they supposed to go if there are no alternative or relocation homes provided to assist these people? They are Malaysians and many have families with small children,” Shafie asked.
He said this when asked about the string of evictions around Sabah for the purpose of development during a walkabout at the Gaya Street Sunday market here.
He feels there should be a win-win solution for both the affected families and the state government, which may need land for redevelopment purposes.
Shafie said proper planning needed to be done beforehand, and an amicable solution provided so that no one becomes a victim of development.
He also suggested alternative homes that offer cheaper rental rates, or funding schemes that help absorb or lower rent deposits and other fees involved in renting a house.
Evictions include those in Tanjung Aru, Sepanggar squatter and some east coast water villages built on state lands.
Local authorities have previously said that ample time had been given with notice of evictions issued prior to any eviction or demolition of squatter homes which were carried out for safety concerns and land redevelopment purposes.
