KOTA KINABALU: Locals with native lands are advised to develop them instead of selling, as land is an asset that can be handed down to their children and can help support their livelihood when cultivated, says Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
The Deputy Chief Minister II, who is also the state Local Government and Housing Minister, said some people wait 10 years or more to receive their grants or titles.
“Do not sell your lands as these are assets that should be preserved and cultivated,” said the Deputy Chief Minister II, who is also the state Local Government and Housing Minister, after handing over 205 land grants under the Sabah Native Land Services Programme (Pantas) in Kg Tambatuon in Kota Belud on Tuesday(April 29).
Joachim stated that land is important for the local natives, particularly the Kadazandusun, Murut, and Rungus communities.
“Some people wait 10 years before finally getting their land titles, before this Pantas programme. We thank the Land and Surveys Department for their effort in preparing these grants smoothly,” he said at the event, which some 300 villagers attended.
Speaking about the land grants, he said the titles were only issued to participating applicants whose lands had been worked on and land that did not involve areas of dispute or owned lands.
“If disputes on the lands apply, Pantas will not be implemented. Local community leaders must identify and provide the information needed,” said Joachim.
