JOHOR BARU – The implementation of new housing projects will take into account the existence of wildlife threats in an area, said Deputy Local Government Development Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
He said this was following an increase in reports on the presence of wild animals such as elephants in residential areas, especially in rural areas.
As such, he said his ministry will work with the Wildlife Protection and National Parks (Perhilitan) Department to ensure such incidents do not happen again.
“There have been cases of wild animals wandering into residential areas lately, so we need to work with Perhilitan to prevent further harm to either the residents or the wild animals themselves.
“... The developer or (local authorities) need to ensure that they comply with the decision and continuous monitoring must also be carried out,” he told reporters after handing out mandarin oranges to the public in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration at Taman Pelangi Morning Market, here today.
Video clips showing wild animals such as elephants wandering into residential areas in several states including Johor, Kelantan, and Pahang have gone viral on social media recently.
Meanwhile, Akmal Nasrullah, who is also Johor Baru MP, said the Local Government Development Ministry was looking at more accurate data and statistics regarding sick and abandoned housing projects.
“During this month, I have collected data regarding problematic projects and (the ministry) is trying its best to find solutions to those projects, but it may take some time because the projects also involve private developers,” he said. – Bernama, January 16, 2023
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