NABAWAN: A long-standing issue involving a land settlement scheme in Nabawan is being revisited with the reactivation of a development committee to expedite resolution of ownership and development matters.
State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said the decision was made following a dialogue with residents at the Nabawan District Council multipurpose hall.
He said the scheme, which has existed for about 58 years and was gazetted as early as 1958, still faces unresolved issues.
“Following a question raised by the Nabawan Assemblyman at the recent State Assembly sitting, this area needs attention, including fulfilling commitments on land titles,” he said.
Jamawi said the dialogue revealed various outstanding matters, particularly land ownership, area development and residents’ rights.
He said many residents who relocated to the scheme since the 1960s have yet to receive full entitlements.
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The area was initially placed under his ministry for development through the Sabah State Padi Board, but he said a more comprehensive approach is now required.
“I am here to hear directly the concerns, suggestions and views of the community so that the ministry can assist more effectively,” he said.
He said the Nabawan development committee, chaired by the District Officer and coordinated with the Nabawan Assemblyman, has been reactivated to review proposals and memoranda before submission to the ministry.
Jamawi said the ministry will act on recommendations from district authorities, local leaders and community representatives, including village heads and traditional leaders.
He said attention will also be given to gazetted lands that have yet to be developed, including areas identified as KPD land.
He added that development of the land is expected to boost the local economy, create employment opportunities and support food security efforts through agricultural activities such as padi and corn cultivation.
