| Government Assures Development Won't Affect Kampung Pertak Ecosystem |
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HULU SELANGOR, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- The government today gave assurance to the Orang Asli community in Kampung Pertak, Kuala Kubu Baharu, near here, that any effort undertaken to develop the area would not affect its enviroment and ecosystem.
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Senator Datuk T. Murugiah said the government would also ensure that there would be no illegal logging or sand-digging activities in the area, where approximately 203 Orang Asli reside.
"We will not disturb the environment. Whatever we do is for the benefit of the people, including the Orang Asli.
"Let's hope that there won't be any quarters who will misinterpret the issue and offer different opinions to the extent of creating other problems," he told reporters after attending a meeting with the Orang Asli, here, Friday.
During the meeting, the Orang Asli, led by Tok Batin Bida Chik, lamented the ongoing road construction in the area which they feared would pave the way for illegal logging and sand-digging activities.
Murugiah explained that the road project, expected to be completed next year, was implemented for the convenience of the people.
He also gave assurance that regular monitoring would be carried out to ensure that the facility would no be abused.
The deputy minister then toured the village, which he said had the potential to be developed as an ecotourism destination.
"I think it is suitable for camping activity. Besides, there are some historical items that can still be found in the village, like the old train coach as well as the tracks and bridge built by the British," he added.
-- BERNAMA
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