By Aida Aziz
GOPENG: A seven-day notice has been given to several Orang Asli families still living in a hazardous area near a quarry plant here, urging them to relocate to a safer settlement.
Not only are they residing in dilapidated and rundown homes, but the situation is worsened by the fact that the area is unsafe for the children living there.
According to Gopeng Member of Parliament, Tan Kar Hing, the issue has been raised multiple times, and the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) has visited the site on several occasions.
They have offered safer housing, complete with basic facilities and access to education.
However, all offers have been rejected by the families involved.
“The houses they are living in are in poor condition, leaking, surrounded by unhygienic environments, and pose a high safety risk.
“More concerning is the presence of children who are believed to be out of school, neglected, including one child found locked inside a house with their feet tied,” he said.
“To ensure these children’s welfare is not further neglected, I have requested an initial report from the Social Welfare Department and JAKOA regarding the number of families and children involved.
“In addition, I have asked JAKOA to assess alternative sites and funding needs to provide a safer new settlement within an Orang Asli village area.
“If no changes are made within the seven-day period, further action will be taken to ensure the safety and welfare of the children,” he added.
