KOTA KINABALU: Locals with native land should develop their land instead of selling them, as some people waited 10 years or more to get their grants or titles, says Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
The Deputy Chief Minister II, who is also state Local Government and Housing Minister, said land is an asset that can be handed down to their children, which in turn can help their livelihood when worked on.
“Do not sell your land. These are assets that should be preserved and cultivated,” he said after handing over a total of 205 land grants under the Sabah Native Land Services programme (Pantas) in Kg Tambatuon, Kota Belud.
Joachim said land is important to local natives, especially the Kadazandusun, Murut and Rungus communities.
“Prior to this programme, some people had to wait 10 years before finally getting their land titles. We thank the Land and Survey Department for their effort in preparing these grants smoothly,” he said.
Speaking about the land grants, Joachim said these titles are only issued to participating applicants whose land has been worked on but have yet to receive any title and do not involve areas of dispute or owned land.
He said the government will always protect the rights of the people first, and support valid applications as long as all parties cooperate with the Land and Survey Department throughout the process.
