700 facing eviction want government to step in
Published on: Wed, Jul 16, 2025
By: Marutin Ansiung Text Size: Representatives from the eight villages posing for a photo with officials from Suhakam. KENINGAU: More than 700 residents from eight villages in Mukim Dalit Sook want Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor to intervene and resolve their ancestral land problem with a company that issued eviction notices in May. They were shocked to suddenly receive eviction notices from a company holding Title Grant PL 136291659, delivered through a law firm based in Kota Kinabalu.
Advertisement The eviction notice, dated on May 8, gave residents 30 days from the date of service to vacate the land and hand over vacant possession to the company. However, residents from the eight affected villages — Kampung Bonor, Kabatang Luku Malaing, Likowon, Desa Permai Haksa Pupuhi Melosok, Sanang, Dalit Station, Karamatoi and Angkawangan — refused to leave the land they claim their ancestors occupied for generations. Jamir Ubi, who is the Chairman of the Joint Action Committee for the villages of Mukim Dalit, said they lodged a complaint with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) seeking advice and assistance. On June 23 and 24, Suhakam conducted an official visit to these eight villages to hear first-hand their complaints and concerns. 'This is not newly settled land. This is our ancestral heritage. It's where we have built our lives, supported our families and grown our livelihoods,' Jamir said. He said their land title applications (PT) were submitted as far back as 1995, but were rejected on grounds that the area was classified as Forest Reserve. Yet in 2014, the company's application was approved in a short period of time. 'This left us feeling marginalised and forced out of our ancestral birthplace,' Jamir said sadly. Many voiced deep concern about their families' future, especially for the elderly and children who would have nowhere to go if the eviction proceeds. Suhakam expressed concern over possible human rights violations, particularly the right to housing, dignified living and procedural justice. The commission said findings from the visit would be included in a preliminary investigation report and submitted to relevant parties for further action, including to the appropriate Ministries, the State Government and the company involved. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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