Probe illegal squatter colonies in Penampang call
PENAMPANG: The State Government is urged to check all the illegal squatters i n Penampang district which may be harbouring illegal immigrants and fake Malaysian citizenship holders.
In making the call PKR Penampang deputy chief, Kenny Chua Teck Ho said it is the responsibility of the State Government to ensure that the district is safe from any foreign elements that could potentially create unrest, such as the standoff between the Malaysian security forces and Royal Sulu Army at Penampang Baru last year.
“Some of the illegal squatters in Penampang are located in areas that can provide multiple escape routes either by vehicle or by foot,” he said.
Chua, who is also Sabah’s MyWatch chief, said that apart from security threat, illegal squatters are also well known to do illegal electricity and water connections.
“Illegal connection of electricity and water had caused SESB/Water Department huge losses of revenue, wastage and also disruption.
“And sadly, genuine Sabahans in Penampang have to bear the brunt during disruptions or when the tariffs have to be increased to cover losses,” he said.
Chua pointed out that most of the illegal squatter colonies in Penampang do not have proper rubbish disposal, sanitary or drainage systems and this could potentially cause disease outbreaks such as cholera or dengue and other water/airborne transmitted diseases.
“The illegal immigrants occupying the illegal squatters around Penampang have a very bad habit of indiscriminate dumping or throwing of rubbish in some bushes and this would attract mosquitoes, rats, stray dogs and other pests scavenging for foods,” he claimed
“As a result, plastics and other garbages will be strewn all over the places, creating a very ugly sight to outsiders,” he lamented.
“These illegal squatters are also a perfect place for drug addicts and glue sniffing stateless children to congregate and we cannot rule it out that when they get high, they will trespass or break into the nearby locals’ houses.
And when they do, it is highly possible for t hem to steal things,” he added.
Chua, however, said that his greatest concern is that when a particular colony became too big over time, the State Government will finally have to provide low cost housing to the inhabitants if there is a necessity to demolish the colony.
“This is the reason why all the illegal squatters in Penampang must be nipped in the bud. The State Government must do it now and there should be no more dilly-dallying,” he said.