KUCHING: A total of RM79.53 million in land compensation for the Darul Hana Development Project (Phase II) was dispersed to 272 landowners here yesterday.
The project involved 166 lots spanning a total of 94.72 hectares (ha). Inquiry for the lots was made from June 12 to 14 and from July 1 to 5 this year.
The Darul Hana Development Project consists of 10 construction blocks, involving 12 villages from Kampung Boyan to Kampung Bintawa Hilir. This area is also known as Kampung Seberang Hilir, comprising an area of about 721.11 acres.
The development is expected to benefit some 14,600 people from more than 3,600 families.
Second Resource Planning and Environment Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan, who officiated at the cheque presentation ceremony at Wisma Sumber Alam, admitted it was not easy to give up land, especially those situated in prime areas.
“The government is grateful for the understanding of those affected. Without cooperation of the landowners, many problems will arise.
“Darul Hana Development Project provides a more systematic development aimed to improve the quality of life in terms of economics, social, health and safety of the community involved. This project will provide a more conducive environment meeting to the development needs of future generations.”
He added it would also create many business spin-offs.
“The project will also provide modern educational facilities and infrastructure while maintaining the village feel to attract tourism.”
Also present were organising chairperson cum Assistant Minister of Resource Planning Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais, Assistant Environment Minister Datu Len Talif Salleh, Pantai Damai assemblyman Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, state Land and Survey director Datu Sajeli Kipli, and its Kuching division superintendent Taib Belal.
Phase I of the project involves the building of Darul Hana Mosque. Scheduled to begin construction next year, the mosque project sits at Block 1. Costing RM22.84 million, it will be able to accommodate 2,740 worshippers.
The site where the proposed mosque sits spans 9.17ha, comprising 21 lots belonging to 31 landowners. Compensation amounted to RM8.1 million, and payout began on April 9 this year.
A special counter will be opened on Oct 21 at the Land and Survey Department here for those who have yet to collect their compensation cheque.