19th January 2019
PATRIOT APPLAUDS PUTRAJAYA FOR SUING THE KELANTAN STATE GOVERNMENT
In suing the Kelantan state government on behalf of the Temiar orang asli group, Putrajaya has put its right foot forward. It is morally correct to protect the indigenous group against encroachment into their ancestral land by loggers and durian farmers even though the state government has granted them license.
It was reported that Attorney General Tommy Thomas said the Kelantan state government had granted logging rights in Gua Musang to private companies without consulting the orang asli group. Neither was any compensation offered. Such disregard for the orang asli rights, who have used the land to sustain their livelihood, is irresponsible of the state government. It is an example what state governments should not do even if land matters are within their jurisdiction.
The Kelantan state government is reminded of the worst ever flood in the state in 2014 that resulted in sufferings and lost of properties of the Kelantan people. The flood was a result of indiscriminate land clearance and logging activities.
In allowing for commercial interest over the orang asli rights, the Kelantan state government appears to have lost its moral compass. This is surprising as the state leaders are considered to be revered and pious.
Patriot fully supports AG Tommy Thomas and Putrajaya in championing the rights of the Temiar orang asli in Kelantan.
BG Dato Mohamed Arshad Raji (Rtd)
President,Persatuan Patriot Kebangsaan
(PPM-005-14-22052017)
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