By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 29: Progress in public infrastructure must not come at the cost of fairness and legal clarity for affected landowners, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, who today intervened in a land access dispute caused by a new highway project.
According to a press release, during a site inspection this morning, Yap, accompanied by officers from the Public Works Department (JKR) and their consultant, assessed the challenges faced by local landowner Chong, whose property (Lot 2556) was left without legal road access following the construction of a new highway.
“The landowner, whose property (Lot 2556) has been isolated by the highway’s development, currently relies on an informal access road that crosses two neighbouring plots (Lots 1089 and 1090).
“However, this arrangement remains tenuous, as the neighbouring landowners could withdraw their consent at any time, leaving him stranded.
“Despite repeated appeals to JKR for a permanent solution, Chong received no resolution, prompting Yap to intervene, stressing that no one in his constituency should be left in legal limbo by infrastructure intended to serve the public,” the release stated.
Yap, a government backbencher from Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), reiterated his support for the government’s efforts to build vital highways but emphasised that authorities must also prioritise the rights and livelihoods of affected individuals, stressing that it is the duty and responsibility of government agencies to listen, understand, and act.
“JKR and its consultant had previously denied direct highway access to Chong’s property on safety grounds but failed to propose viable alternatives, leaving him without lawful access to his land,” Yap claimed.
“Safety must always be a priority, but fairness must not be sidelined. Infrastructure progress should not shortchange citizens,” Yap said, urging government officials to adopt a more empathetic and proactive approach in handling such cases.
Following the discussions, it was agreed that Chong’s current temporary access would be maintained while the authorities work towards constructing a permanent slip road solution.
Yap reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the rights of his constituents and holding government agencies accountable.
He said progress must not come at the cost of leaving citizens shortchanged, aligning with the principles of social inclusivity under Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030.
“Since his election as Kota Sentosa assemblyman, Yap has consistently advocated for equitable policies, community-driven development, and efficient, transparent governance.
“His service centre will continue assisting constituents facing challenges with public agencies,” the release said. — DayakDaily
