KDCA denies land seizure claims, says Inanam site still Veterinary Reserve

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 19): The Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) has denied allegations of oppression and customary land seizure in connection with its land application involving an area in Inanam.

This clarification follows a peaceful gathering held on Tuesday questioning the land application covering Kampung Minintod and surrounding areas, including Kampung Bantayan and Kampung Sukang Mabpai.

KDCA secretary-general Suman Yasambun said the disputed land remains gazetted as Sabah Veterinary Reserve for departmental use and is not an Indigenous Village Reserve as claimed by certain parties.

“The allegations of oppression or customary land seizure are baseless. The area remains gazetted as a Veterinary Reserve,” he said in a statement.

He explained that under the Native Trust Reserve Resolution P.9114 dated March 12, 1988, KDCA was permitted to occupy and use part of the area measuring 30 acres, subject to official surveying.

Suman added that the resolution was signed by the village heads involved at the time as a sign of agreement to refer the proposal to the state government for consideration.

He further noted that the Koisaan Board of Trustees, in a meeting held at Hongkod Koisaan on May 14, 1994, approved the acceptance of the land offer to KDCA.

The resolution was witnessed by elected representatives and local community leaders.

Following the understanding reached in 1988, KDCA submitted a formal application to the state government, including seeking the consideration of the Chief Minister, together with justifications for the need for the land.

According to Suman, the state government responded positively to the application, subject to comments from the Sabah Veterinary Services Department, which to date has yet to issue official feedback.

“The land status remains as a Veterinary Reserve and the application process has gone through official channels since 1988,” he said.

“We are now awaiting the department’s response before any further action by the Sabah Lands and Surveys Department.”

In this regard, he urged parties seeking clarification not to resort to demonstrations but instead to engage in discussions and examine official documents.

“KDCA will convene a meeting with the three village heads involved on February 20 to provide clarification based on official records and to prevent continued misunderstandings,” he added.