MCCC Pahang backs Sultan's decree, urges tougher penalties for land encroachers
The group proposes jail terms of up to 10 years and fines of up to RM1 million for serious offences involving syndicates.
KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Community Crime Care Organisation (MCCC) Pahang has thrown its full support behind Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah's decree that every inch of state land must be defended from illegal clearing and encroachment.
MCCC Pahang chairman Daniel Khoo said the royal decree was timely as land encroachment had become increasingly worrying and was affecting both the state and its people.
He said government land was an asset that must be protected, as any clearing without approval not only broke the law but also deprived the state government of revenue meant for development.
"When government land is encroached upon and worked illegally, the state loses revenue that should have been collected through taxes, land premiums and various other payments. These losses ultimately affect state development and the people's welfare.
"That is why we fully support Tuanku's decree that every inch of state land be defended from any form of encroachment. State heritage must not be exploited by those who care only about their own profit," he said, in remarks translated from Malay.
Daniel said land encroachment could not be taken lightly as it tarnished Pahang's image and could lead to other activities such as forest clearing and uncontrolled opening of land.
He called on the state government and enforcement agencies to step up monitoring operations in identified high-risk areas and to act immediately against any individual or syndicate found encroaching on government land.
"No one is above the law. Anyone who encroaches on government land must be brought to court regardless of their position or influence.
"Enforcement must also not be seasonal. It must be carried out continuously so that encroachment can be curbed before it becomes more serious," he said.
He further proposed that the law be amended to provide heavier penalties, suggesting jail terms of up to 10 years and fines of up to RM1 million for serious offences, especially those involving syndicates or large-scale encroachment.
Daniel also urged the public to report suspicious activity involving government land, stressing that defending state land was not the government's responsibility alone but required cooperation from all parties for the sake of future generations. – UTUSAN
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