PM calls for probe into ownership of Felda land

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wants the authorities to conduct a thorough probe into the issue of ownership of four parcels of Felda land in Jalan Semarak here that had been transferred to a private company in an alleged dubious deal.

He said in a series of posts on his Twitter account that action would be taken in the case of any negligence or misconduct based on the investigation report.

“An investigation will be conducted to ensure whether there has been negligence or misconduct by those involved. Measures have to be taken to safeguard the interests of Felda and its settlers,” he said.

Najib also advised Felda to take the appropriate action to protect its interests after having been informed of the land issue.

“We must always protect the interests of Felda and the settlers in all development efforts,” he said.

Felda chairman Tan Sri Shahrir Abdul Samad said on Thursday that Felda was ready to take all forms of action to regain its right to the land, estimated to be worth RM270 million, following a report that raised questions about the transfer of ownership.

A police report was lodged on Dec 12 and a caveat was placed on the parcels of land, besides the cancellation of the power of attorney issued, and civil action against the parties involved.

Meanwhile the prime minister in his latest tweet wished the Chinese community in Malaysia “A Happy Winter Solstice”.

“Today marks one of the most important days in Chinese tradition, the Winter Solstice. A day that represents unity, harmony and a time for family.

“I would like to take this opportunity on this auspicious day to wish ‘A Happy Winter Solstice’ to all fellow Malaysians who celebrate it!” he said.

The Winter Solstice, which is celebrated on Dec 22 annually, is a day for the Chinese to observe the beginning of winter and a reminder that another year has gone by.

According to traditional belief, one grows a year older after eating the ‘tang yuan’, a Chinese dessert made from glutinous rice flour. Bernama