A MAJOR part of Kampung Likas Lama believed to be over a century-old fishing village, stands on the brink of being erased under a river dredging project aimed to reduce flash floods in the Kota Kinabalu area.
Residents say the eviction threatens not only their homes but also the heritage built over six generations.
Close to a thousand residents have been served demolition notices from the authorities.
Darau assemblyman Azhar Matussin slammed the two-week notice given to residents, calling it “simply too short” to dismantle homes and find new places to live.
“This village has existed for over 100 years, with generations living here,” he said.
Azhar said the phased issuance of demolition notices of their homes has only added to residents’ confusion.
“Some families have already received their notices, while others are still waiting. This uncertainty only adds to their stress,” he added.
Residents, most of whom are fishermen, fear relocation will jeopardise their livelihoods.
“If they are relocated to another area, how will they continue their work? How will they go to the sea and take their boats?” Azhar asked.
The dredging project aims to deepen the Sungai Likas riverbed as a means to prevent instances of flooding.
Flash floods have worsened in Kota Kinabalu in recent years, affecting areas like Penampang and other urban areas.
Sungai Likas connects to major drainage systems from Kota Kinabalu, Kolombong, Penampang, and Luyang. The Inanam River, flowing through Kolombong and Inanam, is a key tributary, channelling water from these areas into Sungai Likas. This influences its flow and flood patterns.
To manage flooding, efforts in Kolombong and Menggatal aim to direct floodwaters to the sea via Sungai Likas, preventing water buildup and ensuring smooth flow.
But the demolition of the village folks' houses has sparked debate over its cost to heritage.
Former JKK chairman Awang Rasid Derahim said the villagers have applied four times since the 1990s to have the area gazetted as an official village.
“The application was submitted to Datuk Seri Panglima Yong Teck Lee when he was Chief Minister. Documents were sent to the Lands and Surveys Department, but the efforts didn’t succeed,” Awang said.
Awang added that residents do not oppose government projects but urged authorities to proceed carefully.
“We’re asking for this to be considered carefully. This is not about politics — it’s about humanity and the welfare of the people,” he said.
Villager Abd Ghani Kassim criticised the timing of the eviction, noting it coincides with Ramadan and the school term.
“Finding new homes in just 14 days is impossible, especially during Ramadan. Most of us work as fishermen and have lived here for more than six generations,” Ghani said.
Ghani proposed an alternative solution, suggesting the river could be diverted upstream to reduce the project’s impact on the village.
“This could save costs and avoid demolishing the houses,” he said.
Meanwhile, Azhar also called for the government to adjust the project’s alignment to allow residents to remain.
“I’ve spoken to the relevant authorities. Surely there’s a way to balance development and compassion,” he said.
Residents hope their pleas will convince the government to protect Kampung Likas Lama, a village they have called home for over 100 years.
“This isn’t just about houses — it’s about memories, identity, and a way of life,” Azhar said. - January 20, 2025
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