Outsiders blamed as village demolition dispute settled

7 June 2026

SANDAKAN : Residents are advised not to be influenced by elements brought in by outsiders.

Rahmat Iskandar, Community Development Officer (PPM) for Sungai Manila, said any problems faced can be reported to the Sungai Manila Community Development Leaders’ Unit (UPPM).

“Bring them to our attention… we will refer the matter to the relevant parties,” he said here today.

Rahmat was commenting on a proposal to demolish houses in Kampung Gayan Sibugal.

He said certain parties from outside had politicised the issue.

He added that the matter had been resolved after an agreement was reached at a meeting on 5 June.

The meeting, chaired by Rahmat, was also attended by village head Muksan Mijul, JKKK chairman Adisil Komong, police, enforcement officers and government agencies.

Rahmat said the discussions at the meeting resulted in a consensus among all parties.

“Discussions were held and a joint decision was reached… this issue has been politicised by certain parties."

“It was deliberately politicised… but a collective decision has already been made,” he said.

As a result of the talks, 50 houses built on reserved land will be demolished according to the prescribed procedures.

Only one family applied for temporary relocation, and that request has been approved by the village head.

Checks show most of the affected homeowners have other residences in the same village.

Three families were identified as having homes in temporary settlement areas, while two families have moved in with their parents.

Another person has been temporarily accommodated on land belonging to the JKKK secretary of Kampung Sibugal.

Regarding allegations that fees were charged for disconnection of water and electricity supplies, Rahmat said the claims were untrue.

“We have contacted the water department and SESB and both have denied the allegations.

“I advise village residents to remain cautious and contact us if there are any problems,” he added.