Kota Kinabalu: Darau Assemblyman Azhar Matussin claimed that nearly 300 families in Kg Likas Lama, Kg Bakau and Kg Lembaga Padi, near Likas were served with eviction notices last week, giving them just 14 days to vacate their homes to make way for a drainage project.
Azhar, who described the move as “cruel and insensitive,” said most of the affected families are Malaysian citizens, with many having lived in the area for decades, if not generations.
“These people are not just squatters — they are Sabahans who have called this place home for more than 100 years in some cases. The government cannot just issue a two-week notice and expect them to uproot their lives without any support,” he said.
The eviction notices have left residents, many of whom have deep roots in the area, grappling with uncertainty as the deadline looms.
Azhar said the majority of residents are from low-income backgrounds, making it nearly impossible for them to secure alternative housing within the given timeframe.
“With Ramadan and Hari Raya around the corner, this decision is heartless. Development should not come at the expense of people’s welfare. The government should at least provide temporary housing or financial assistance,” he said.
Azhar stressed that while he understood the need for infrastructure improvements, the government should adopt a more humane approach, particularly when dealing with long-standing communities.
Warisan President Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal also said it is very disappointing to learn that there are several ongoing similar cases in Sabah, such as Tanjung Aru, Sembulan and Semporna.
“This is very disappointing. I see that this issue is troubling the people. I have spoken many times about how, even if some of these people do not own the land, they are still Malaysians — Sabahans — who have lived there for decades.
“If we issue an eviction notice or ask them to move, we must provide a place for them to relocate because they have families, children. Maybe their children are in school. Where will they stay? Surely not on the roadside?” he said.
Shafie said the Sabah Government should ensure that there is a balance between development and the wellbeing of the people.
“If we plan to develop an area, but it has been occupied for 30, 40, or 50 years, what is the priority? To develop, to earn profit, or to manage the people’s lives? This is what we need, a balance. We pursue development, but at the same time, we must address the welfare of the people,” he said.
Shafie added that he had taken a similar approach during his tenure as Chief Minister to ensure people were not displaced without proper planning.
