Displaced Pahang Orang Asli invited to live on royal land

Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah has expressed sympathy for Orang Asli embroiled in a land dispute in Kampung Sungai Cot, Maran, offering temporary resettlement on land she owns to families in need.

Comptroller of the Royal Household for the Sultan of Pahang, Zahari Yahya, said Her Royal Highness has been following developments and understands the anxiety and hardship faced by the affected community.

He said Tunku Azizah regards the Orang Asli not only as part of the people of Pahang but as a community that holds a special place in her heart.

“Through the thesis she is currently undertaking, Her Royal Highness has come to appreciate the significant role the Orang Asli have played in the development of Pahang for a long time.

“Their welfare and future have therefore always been close to her heart,” Zahari said.

Resettlement offer

Moved by compassion and a sense of responsibility, Tunku Azizah has invited Orang Asli families from Kampung Sungai Cot who need housing to relocate to her land in Kuala Wau, Maran.

Zahari said Her Royal Highness also assured the community they need not worry about their future.

“Should the land in Kuala Wau be developed in the future, Tengku Ampuan Pahang will ensure that the Orang Asli families living there will continue to have a place to stay and will not be marginalised.

“Their welfare will continue to be protected, and they will be able to remain in the area,” he said.

Zahari added that the offer is not limited to residents of Kampung Sungai Cot.

“Any Orang Asli families in need of shelter or a new settlement are also welcome to reside on land owned by Her Royal Highness in Kuala Wau, Maran, subject to her royal consent and in accordance with existing laws,” he said.

Zahari said Tunku Azizah hopes the offer will ease the burden on those affected while safeguarding the welfare of the Orang Asli regardless of their background or circumstances.

She also urged all parties to resolve the dispute through constructive dialogue and consultation based on mutual understanding and respect, to reach a fair and balanced outcome that protects everyone’s interests.

The dispute has also drawn the attention of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is expected to discuss the matter with the Pahang government, as land administration falls under state jurisdiction.

- Bernama

COMMENT | Customary land rights not rhetoric, education no bargaining chip

SNAPSHOT | PM vows to raise Pahang Orang Asli villagers' plight; Muar MP's crowdfund exceeds target

SNAPSHOT | Orang Asli duo begin protest walk to PMO; PAC to decide on probe over KWAP's investment

SNAPSHOT | Khairy eyed as N Sembilan 'poster candidate'; Orang Asli: Land is survival