No party should exploit the issue of illegal occupation of government land in several villages in Seremban as political ammunition, especially during the campaign period for the 16th Negri Sembilan state election.
Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the matter had been handled carefully by taking into account the views of all parties, including residents living in the affected squatter settlements, before being discussed during the State Executive Council meeting.
He said several solutions were proposed following the discussions, including demolishing old houses and offering each affected family a new affordable Type A housing unit to provide them with safer and more comfortable living conditions.
“This is among the efforts by the state government to help them move out of squatter homes. We are trying to assist and resolve their issues, including matters involving their respective bank arrangements,” he said.
However, Aminuddin expressed disappointment that the issue was allegedly being used to raise racial sentiments, pointing out that the affected villages consist of residents from different communities, including Malays and Indians.
He urged irresponsible parties to understand the actual situation before making accusations against him or the state government.
Aminuddin, who is also Negri Sembilan Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, explained that the squatter settlements built on state government reserve land had existed for many years, with the issue continuing even before the PH administration took over.
He said it was the responsibility of the current state government to resolve long-standing issues affecting residents.
“Instead of criticising, they should appreciate that we are resolving this matter. We are providing homes so they no longer occupy land that belongs to others, but the opposition continues bringing up DAP. The question is, when will they solve this issue?” he said.
Aminuddin also questioned how an official letter related to the matter was leaked to the public and turned into a political issue, adding that there should be more constructive discussions instead of accusations.
