PUTRAJAYA: An estimated RM2.2 billion is needed in order to fully rehabilitate Cameron Highlands, which has been ravaged by the scourge of illegal farming.
National Security Council secretary Datuk Seri Alias Ahmad said the cost was estimated based on input provided by council members' findings.
Alias said it was disappointing that the government has to bear such a huge amount due to the actions of irresponsible quarters.
"However the cost will be studied again due to the current economic situation as expenses must be carefully planned," he said.
Alias was speaking to reporters after attending the Cameron Highlands Rehabilitation Technical Committee meeting today.
He said Phase 1 of Ops Gading had opened investigation papers on 98 companies conducting illegal farming in Cameron Highlands.
A total of 83 are now the subject of police investigations.
"We have also destroyed 83 per cent from 2, 258.16 hectares of encroached land for illegal farming from Dec 2014 to Dec 2015.
"Another 362.14 hectares is still being investigated," he said.
He said Phase 2 of the operation from May to July will focus on illegal encroachment, eradicating illegal foreign workers, as well as efforts to rehabilitate Cameron Highlands.