Two NGOs have slammed the government for ignoring the rights of local communities in the rush to turn Pengerang into a petroleum refining hub.

The Oppressed People's Network (Jerit) and Malaysians for Beng Hock (MBH) issued a joint statement today urging Idris Jala, Minister in Prime Minister's Department, to show care for Johorians whose land is being acquired for the Petronas-backed RM60 billion refinery and port project .

They criticised the police for arresting and charging a young villager who, on Feb 24, had tried to stop a contractor from counting the number of graves targeted for removal.

As the state-owned Malaysian Petroleum Resources Corp (MPRC), under the Pemandu unit of the Prime Minister's Department, is responsible for development in Pengerang, the NGOs asked that the government be more sensitive.

"We call upon MPRC chairperson Idris Jala (left) to put the project on hold, initiate a cautious consultation process and dialogue with local communities," the statement said.

"Failing to do so, will only demonstrate the selfishness of federal government which puts development and profit before the welfare of people."

Jerit and MBH also called for a review of the Land Acquisition Act, as this is now skewed in favour of the government.

"The current provisions give unquestionable power to the government in the acquisition of land for public purposes or for economic development. It must be amended (to restrict) the erosion of people’s right to land," they said

They said the law must provide for local communities to have a say on how they want their area to be developed, rather than be overlooked by the government and project developers.

"Public hearings must be held by the government prior to commencement of land acquisition and a consultative committee that includes community representatives must be formed," they added.