KUANTAN, JULY 20 — Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah expressed her sympathy and sorrow over the land dispute issue involving the Orang Asli community in Kampung Sungai Cot, Maran.
The Comptroller of the Royal Household of the Sultan of Pahang, Maj Gen Datuk Mohamed Zahari Yahya, in a statement, informed that his Majesty is always following developments and is very understanding of the frustration and difficulties faced by the Orang Asli community in the area.
He said Tunku Azizah believed that the Orang Asli community was not just part of the people of Pahang, but would always have a very special place in her heart.
“According to the thesis study that His Majesty is currently completing, the role of Our People (Orang Asli) has been essential in the development of the state since time immemorial. Therefore, their well-being and future have always been among the matters that His Majesty has paid attention to,” he said.
At the same time, out of love and a sense of responsibility, Tunku Azizah graciously invited any family from the Orang Asli community of Kampung Sungai Cot, Maran who needed relocation to move to live on her land in Kuala Wau, Maran.
He said his Majesty also stressed that the Orang Asli community did not need to worry about their future.
“If in the future the land owned by His Majesty in Kuala Wau is developed, Tengku Ampuan Pahang will ensure that the Orang Kita (Orang Asli) community who live there will continue to have a place to live and will not be marginalized. They will continue to be protected and can live in the area,” he said.
Mohamed Zahari informed that His Majesty said this invitation was not limited to the Orang Asli community of Kampung Sungai Cot, Maran only.
“Any Orang Kita (Orang Asli) community who need shelter or new settlements are also welcome to live on His Majesty’s land in Kuala Wau, Maran after obtaining His Majesty’s consent and in accordance with the provisions of the law in force,” he said.
His Majesty hopes that this invitation can provide some relief to those affected, as well as ensuring that the welfare of the Orang Asli community continues to be defended regardless of background or circumstances.
At the same time, His Majesty called on all parties involved to prioritize the spirit of consensus, mutual respect and wise negotiation in seeking a solution that is fair, prudent and safeguards the interests of all parties.
The issue involving the Orang Asli of Kampung Cot Maran has also received the attention of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who will reportedly discuss the land dispute issue involving the community involved with the state government since it is under state jurisdiction.
— BERNAMA
