ISKANDAR PUTERI: Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Almarhum Sultan Iskandar today expressed his disappointment over the discovery that some from the Orang Asli community had been illegally clearing forest reserves for large-scale rubber and oil palm cultivation.
His Majesty believes there are outside parties behind the matter and are trying to take advantage by using Orang Asli rights as an excuse.
"In fact, there are some who are attempting to claim wandering areas that do not make sense at all. If that was the case, all the space in this legislative assembly has also a lot of wandering areas," His Majesty said when opening the 15th Johor state assembly sitting at the Sultan Ismail Building here.
Sultan Ibrahim said for the longest time, the government had been taking care of the welfare of the Orang Asli in Johor by implementing various development projects and providing assistance to upgrade their lives.
His Majesty said the government has also provided Orang Asli settlements with water and electricity supply facilities and other public facilities for their comfort.
Sultan Ibrahim also issued a reminder that although the position of Orang Asli is protected by the Constitution, they are also obliged to comply with existing laws.
"Forest encroachment is wrong, and the Orang Asli are of no exception. The government must be firm in the actions taken and ensure continuous monitoring to protect forests' natural treasures and wildlife.
"I urge the government to put Orang Asli settlements and reserve land back under 'Sultanate Land' so that no party can act as they please," Sultan Ibrahim said. – Bernama