The Kelantan state government will meet with the local Orang Asli community to discuss the issue of Balah forest reserve, Gua Musang in a meeting planned to be held soon.

Deputy Menteri Besar Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah said although there has yet to be any request from the community on the meeting, the state government would however find a suitable date to meet them personally.

The meeting would not involve any non-governmental organisations or political parties, he told reporters in Kota Baru today.

He was commenting on the action of a group of Orang Asli residents who had staged a protest against logging activities in the forest, including setting up a blockade to prevent logs from being taken out from the area, since Sept 26.

“We did received reports on the issue, but it was more to misunderstanding, apart from elements of instigation from certain parties who tried to incite the Orang Asli community.

He said the Department of Environment would monitor the logging activities and lodge a report and if any offences were committed, the offenders could be prosecuted.

“The detailed report is expected to be received within one to two days,” he added.

- Bernama