KALABAKAN: Settlers at Felda Umas have appealed to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to intervene in resolving long-standing issues, including the approval of about 500 acres of land for second-generation housing and the stalled Felda Second Generation Housing Project (PPGKF).
Around 55 residents held a peaceful gathering on Saturday, urging federal action after years of uncertainty.
Hasmadi Amat Asan, 44, said many second-generation families are still living with their parents, some with up to six families in one house, due to a lack of housing or land plots. He noted that while Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor had expressed support, no new updates have been received.
Felda Umas Youth Council chairman Khairul Irwan, 39, said unlike settlers in Peninsular Malaysia who already benefit from the Felda New Generation Housing Project (PRGB), the PPGKF in Sabah has yet to begin despite promises and national-level discussions.
He added that some families have waited over 20 years, and though the state government supports the project, Felda has yet to give approval.
Resident Jubaidah Nustari, 50, urged the authorities to fast-track housing allocations, fearing for families’ futures once their parents retire from Felda.
Village head Otoh Kanus, 67, also appealed for land titles for their long-occupied home lots, warning of insecurity without ownership despite already receiving plantation land grants.
Felda Umas, part of Felda Sahabat 2, was opened in the 1980s and now houses over 10,000 residents from its 776 original settlers.
