SABAK BERNAM, Nov 8 — The Selangor government is consulting with residents of a settlement in Batu 11, Gombak, over their eviction to allow for a project to expand the Karak Expressway.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the administration is mediating between the developer and residents towards a better solution.
“A delay was approved yesterday and discussions are underway to manage this issue. The residents aren’t living on their own land, but illegally occupying forest reserve land.
“They cannot trespass on forest areas. We will give the best answer after talks are done,” he said when met at the Ban Canal Carnival here today.
Amirudin, who is also Gombak assemblyman, said several early agreements have been settled and the government is deciding on mediation details with both parties.
He added that the project is an important one as it aims to address traffic congestion during festive holidays, but that the state won’t neglect Batu 11 residents and will ensure they receive the help they need.
“Although the settlement is illegal, on a humanitarian front, we will try to mediate so they can relocate with the support they need. That is the state’s policy and decision,” Amirudin said.
Previously, media reports said Batu 11 residents of 24 houses received their first eviction notice on October 15, 2024, but were given an indefinite postponement.
However, on October 9, residents received a new notice that they have to vacate their homes within nine days.
The second notice was issued by the Selangor Forestry Department, which ordered residents to vacate their homes by November 10.
