Farmers disappointed over the state’s inaction on proposed project
Looking into it: Choo (left) showing Dr Mah some documents used in applying for the land titles.
THREE years have passed since a group of 13 pomelo and fruit farmers from Ulu Piah in Ampang, Ipoh, were offered the chance to take part in an eco-tourism project proposed by state Economic Planning Unit (UPEN).
However, the farmers claim that no news or development has come out of the proposal.
Pomelo farmer Choo Chee Cheong, who spoke on behalf of the group, said the farmers were desperate for updates on the proposal as being part of it, would mean having the chance to finally obtain land titles to their orchards.
"There has been no news from UPEN since the proposal was made known to us in 2009.
"No one came to check on our orchards and we have not received any feedback from the state government.
"We are very worried that our applications for land title will become void and our orchards, which we have been working on for the past 50 to 60 years, will be taken away from us," Choo told reporters on Saturday during a visit by state executive councillor Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, whom they have turned to for help.
Choo said the farmers had been applying for land titles for years.
"The last time, we resubmitted our applications was between 2007 and 2008 after being directed to do so by the Batu Gajah Land Office.
"We merely followed the instructions. The proposal by UPEN came shortly afterwards.
"But having done so, we later learned that of the 46 farmers in the area, only 33 farmers are on the list of successful applicants while the remaining 13 of us are left in limbo.
"We are hoping that the matter can be resolved as soon as possible," he added.
Another farmer, Chan Chuen Fatt, 49, said about 88% of the farmers in Ulu Piah were pomelo growers. Other fruit trees grown there included durians, umbra and guava.
Chan said most of them were second generation farmers and their only wish was for the state to issue them with land titles.
"So far, none of us have been served with eviction notices but we are not taking any chances.
"We do not want people to suddenly show up at our orchards claiming the land to be theirs," he said.
Allaying the farmers' fears, Dr Mah said he would bring up their plight with the state executive council and also discuss the matter with Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir on how the state could assist them.
"The farmers have handed to me documents pertaining to their land applications.
"We will see what can be done and try to work things out as soon as possible," Dr Mah assured the farmers.
Dr Mah stressed that the state would look into all problems faced by farmers, area by area.
"We have already been to Coldstream and Jeram to settle the land problems faced by the farmers there.
"At present, we are looking at problems in other areas, including Ulu Piah," he added.
-The Star-
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