Kota kinabalu: The Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) has retained ownership of 400 hectares of land in Felda Sahabat 22 and 23 in Lahad Datu following a ruling by the Kota Kinabalu High Court yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Felda's Strategic Communications Department stated that the agency respects the court's decision, which overturned a prior ruling by the Sabah Lands and Surveys Department concerning a proposed transfer of the land due to claims related to Native Customary Rights land.

The land, lawfully acquired by Felda through a 99-year lease effective from January 1, 1984, has been the subject of claims since 2009 by several groups asserting customary land rights. To address the matter, Felda filed an application for judicial review against the earlier decision, resulting in the court ruling that maintains Felda's ownership of the land.

Felda emphasized its commitment to sustainable plantation development and management, aiming to benefit settlers and contribute to the economic development of Sabah and the nation. During the court proceedings, Felda was represented by Messrs Ronny Cham and Co.