By Neville Timothy Sanders & Sarah Hafizah Chandra
KUCHING: The development in areas surrounding the Hikmah Exchange would be planned carefully and clearly from the outset to avoid land disputes between owners and developers.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) will be involved in the surrounding area’s development as part of a centralised planning approach.
His reference to “kampung baru” was linked to redevelopment issues faced in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, where fragmented land ownership across generations has complicated development efforts.
“In Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, land originally owned by early settlers had been passed down to multiple heirs, resulting in overlapping ownership claims that later led to prolonged disputes during redevelopment.
“We do not want ‘kampung baru’ to become a problem area. That is why development would be planned early and properly,” he said to reporters in a press conference after a site visit and briefing at the ART Hikmah Exchange Hub today.
He also added that heritage villages should be preserved while ensuring modern facilities and infrastructure are provided.
Additionally, Abang Johari said the situation in Hikmah Exchange area is different, as villages there remain active, occupied and clearly structured, allowing development to proceed in an orderly manner with the involvement of local communities.
“The state government’s role is to provide essential infrastructure such as improved connectivity and bridges, while allowing villagers to decide how their areas evolve without compromising land ownership or identity,” he said.
The Premier added that villages around Hikmah Exchange are long-established communities with historical value, including areas where Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SEDC) Chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr Abdul Aziz Husain, grew up.
“Sarawak’s approach emphasises early modernisation, clear planning and community engagement to ensure development benefits residents while preventing land disputes that could hamper long-term growth,” he said.
