Masidi: If only Regis cooperates

Kota Kinabalu: The four-acre site in Tamparuli belonging to artist Tina Rimmer should be transferred to a Trust if her vision to build an Arts and Cultural Centre for Sabahans as her legacy is to become a reality."Personally, as a private person, that should be the solution for now so that the rightful owner is assured that her intention is fulfilled," said State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.

Rimmer had placed the Native Title land under the care of former State Museum Director Patricia Regis with a view that Regis will help Rimmer build the centre. The agreement was done at Jayasuria Kah and Company in the presence of its lawyer, Daniel Tan, in the 1990. However, more than 20 years after the deal was struck, the land is left empty although Regis claimed.

Masidi said he is aware of the situation and had asked his ministry's permanent secretary to help sort the problem out.

"Our only interest is because the Ministry is also looking into the cultural portfolio and this falls under that although we are not a party to the alleged contractual obligation of the transfer. Actually, in the last few years, we have been trying to call for a meeting with both parties.

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"But it is difficult to call for a meeting because it is difficult to get the attendance of some people who are most needed like Regis. But I was told recently, they managed to get her and they are sorting it out," he said.

On whether the government is willing to help build the centre as suggested by a Daily Express reader in Forum, Masidi said it is best for both parties to settle the subject of land ownership since it is a thorny issue at the moment.

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Transferring the land to a trust would be beneficial for the project, he said, because it would help build the public's confidence if they want to contribute to the fund that is needed to set up the centre.

"If not, they will ask, what am I donating for? To whom? That will become an issue. So first things first. Nevertheless, we do believe that Patricia Regis will cooperate in this matter," he said.

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