Kuala lumpur: The Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) has allocated nearly RM90 million for a cluster-based solution to develop and relocate the Bukit Baja Orang Asli Community. State Housing and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Borhan Aman Shah said the initiative aims to ensure the welfare of the Orang Asli community remains protected amid the development of the Cyber Valley area.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Borhan noted that the state government and PKNS had considered various factors, including the duration of community settlement on the land, before deciding on the compensation and relocation arrangements. He emphasized the importance of considering the interests of the Orang Asli community, including the extent of their land use and duration of residence. The support provided includes RM7,000 for relocation and demolition costs, a 1,000-square-foot house, and a RM100,000 cash goodwill payment.
Borhan highlighted that PKNS will also contribute RM3 million to establish a Customary Fund, an Education Fund, and a Village Committee Fund for the benefit of the Kampung Bukit Baja Orang Asli. Additionally, compensation for residents' crops and farms could reach up to RM200,000 per acre, depending on land size and crop type. He expressed confidence that the community has been satisfied with the compensation system and process, as the calculations were conducted fairly.
Meanwhile, PKNS deputy group chief executive officer (Strategic Partnership), Md Kamarzan Md Rais, reiterated that the relocation aligns with PKNS's core principle of inclusive development. He emphasized PKNS's commitment to preserving the welfare, well-being, and dignity of the Orang Asli community, ensuring their needs and concerns are addressed comprehensively. The corporation aims to support the community throughout the project's stages, ensuring their rights and voices are prioritized.
During the ceremony, PKNS issued the first payment, representing 10 per cent of the land compensation, to 100 settlers from Kampung Orang Asli Bukit Baja as part of the relocation process. PKNS is planning a new settlement for the community on an 8.87-acre site selected by the Orang Asli chief (tok batin) and community representatives. The proposed development includes 56 single-storey houses, each measuring 1,000 square feet, along with various facilities such as a community hall, kindergarten, treatment space, the tok batin's office, and more.
PKNS issued compensation cheques as an initial phase payment of RM10,000 to 56 heads of households in the community on January 25.