Zooming in on Tanjung Aru project
Question mark over ecotourism redevelopment of beach still remains
KOTA KINABALU: For now, the controversial multi-billion ringgit redevelopment of Sabah’s iconic Tanjung Aru beach has been placed under the microscope.
The state government is still mulling over whether to scrap the project or scale it down.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said they would carry out a comprehensive and in-depth study to look into the ecotourism development project, planned by the previous government.
“We have to look into it thoroughly before a decision is made,” Mohd Shafie said during question hour at the state assembly sitting yesterday.
The future of the project came into question as Parti Warisan Sabah had vowed to scrap it during its election campaign.
The redevelopment, known as Tanjung Aru Eco-Development, had drawn public criticisms as it involved reclamation which impeded public access to the beach.
The project covers 348ha of prime land, with 252ha from sea reclamation for the development of an integrated tourism, resorts public parks and shore recreation.
Among others, it comprised resort hotels, residential areas, marinas, entertainment venues, beach clubs, a golf course and dining areas.
Mohd Shafie said so far, RM60mil has been spent for preparation works of the project and that the state government has yet to receive the RM500mil pledged by the previous Federal Government.
“There is economic potential in this project. The people can benefit through job opportunities and the tourism sector will also get a huge boost.
“If the project is to proceed, the public beach will remain accessible,” he said.
To a question from Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan (STAR – Tambunan) on whether investor confidence would be affected if the project was scrapped, Mohd Shafie said no investors were involved in the project as yet.
Replying to a question on the shortage of water in Kuala Penyu, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Peter Anthony said they were reviewing the contracts given out to various concession holders and contractors to handle maintenance works.