By Mariah Doksil Govt committed to solve squatter problem – CM
KOTA KINABALU: The state government will be looking at the details to fully understand the depth of the squatter problem in Sabah.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said the Parti Warisan Sabah-led state government was committed to solve the problem in Sabah, as it was the promise made in the party's election manifesto.
"We are planning short and long-term solutions to overcome this.
"We don't want more locals living in squatters. This is not only happening in Kota Kinabalu but also in Sandakan and Tawau, and I am aware this cannot be solved within one or two years," he said to reporters yesterday after visiting the fire victims of Kampung Cenderamata Dua, at Likas Multipurpose Hall yesterday.
Earlier, Shafie spent about an hour visiting the squatter area, which was destroyed in a fire at about 2.30pm on Tuesday.
Almost 200 houses were burnt to the ground, making some 600 people homeless.
In the short run, Shafie said the government would move some of the victims to a more comfortable and suitable place.
"What is important is we must ensure their safety from the health aspect. We want the children and elderly who need medical attention to be focused upon and I have instructed the Health Ministry at the state level to handle the matter," he added.