LAHAD DATU: The State government carried out efforts to address issues involving the Palauh community in Sabah East Coast, including Lahad Datu.
State Minister of Community Development and People Wellbeing, Datuk James Ratib, said efforts on this matter have been executed since last year, but the government decided to keep the matter under wraps due to political issues.
James said the issue involving Palauh community has been dragged on for years and the government was criticised for not taking any action.
“Some parties are pointing fingers at the government saying that this matter was never discussed.
“However, my Ministry along with the Internal Affairs Department and Research as well as Lahad Datu District Office have begun to take action since last year.
“However, it was not publicised as we do not want the issue to be politicised by the opposition.”
James said this when officiating the Kaamatan Festival celebration for Lahad Datu at Dewan Perdana, last Sunday.
According him, among the efforts undertaken by the State government is Rumah Passinggah Lahad Datu programme in which the children from the community learn how to read, count, write and self-care, among others.
The programme is implemented every day at Rumah Rehat Kerajaan with the guidance of certified teachers.
“We also have a strategic partnership programme with Felda Sahabat in which the Palauh community members were given the opportunity to work at the plantation.
“A total of 19 Palauhs passed the interview as well as initial screening. They have been offered to work on contract basis at Felda plantation under its continuous monitoring,” he said.
James said his Ministry will continue to support efforts to address issues involving the Palauh community.
Meanwhile, James said Kaamatan Festival promotes unity, cooperation, dedication and mutual support among the communities.
In line with the “Kaamatan For All” theme, the celebration aims to be inclusive and welcomes other races and religions.
