A Durian Plantation Company Sent Thugs To Destroy A Blockade Set Up By The Orang Asli
Over 50 thugs from the durian plantation company came and caused a ruckus.
By Andrea Tang — 06 Aug 2018, 03:35 PM
A durian plantation company has reportedly destroyed blockades built by Orang Asli residing near Pos Tohoi in Gua Musang, Kelantan last week
Videos and photos of the incident were brought to public attention by lawyer and activist Siti Kasim, who said that the Orang Asli community has been mistreated and bullied by thugs of large companies.
The Temiar community build the blockade near Pos Tohoi to keep out logging and plantation on their tribal land
In recent years, commercial logging and plantation have worsened and threatened the homes of the Orang Asli. As such, they have resorted to desperate measures and set up several blockades in order to stop the destruction.
Mustafa Along, president of the Jaringan Kampung Orang Asli Kelantan, told Malaysiakini that the community initially thought the men from the durian plantation company had dropped by for a peaceful discussion
"We thought they were here to talk, but suddenly, they got out of their vehicles, took out their chainsaws and started destroying the blockade," he told Malaysiakini.
The incident reportedly happened right after a visit by Rural Development Deputy Minister R. Sivarasa, who promised the Orang Asli that their land will be gazetted and protected from rampant deforestation.
Meanwhile, workers from the durian plantation have set up their own blockades, effectively blocking the route in and out of Pos Tohoi
According to The Star Online, the whole community is trapped inside as the route is blocked to allegedly stop all cars, including one sent to ferry a patient to the hospital.
This also means that traders and villagers are unable to drive through the area, making food supplies scarce.
Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam (PEKA Malaysia) is now accepting donations to bring the community to the Malaysian Parliament
A memorandum for the rights of Orang Asli is looking to be passed.
You can make your donations to:
Maybank
Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam
5621 0672 4536