KOTA KINABALU: The once vibrant community of Tanjung Aru now faces an uncertain future due to redevelopment plans that threaten the homes of its longstanding residents.
For many, these flats not only represent their homes but also decades of memories. The prospect of eviction, particularly for residents who have lived there for over 50 years, is a devastating reality.
Wong Siew Ken, a 62-year-old part-time promoter, and her diabetic husband are struggling to find a way forward on their limited monthly income of RM1,500.
“I have no idea where we will live,” said Wong, a 30-year resident of the Tanjung Aru flats. Her attempts to apply for housing assistance have been unsuccessful due to a technicality that lists her as a homeowner.
“My children have their own lives; we can’t all live in the same house,” she lamented.
Habibah Karim, 52, is also bracing for the move, having already begun relocating her possessions to her daughter’s residence.
“After 35 years, I have no choice but to leave,” Habibah explained, having declined a housing offer due to distance and condition.
The community awaits clear communication about the relocation process.
Mohd Yusuf Sibin, 63, continues to face challenges after being retrenched in 2020. He helps his wife run a small food stall, their only source of income.
“I was offered a house in Sepanggar but turned it down. After appealing, I was offered a place in Puri Warisan but am yet to receive the keys,” he said, preparing for the move despite many uncertainties.
Tui Gindung, 86, also worries about her family’s future, including a disabled child who requires frequent medical care.
“We have no means to move,” she said, unsure of their next steps.
The community’s sense of camaraderie remains strong, says 43-year-old Grab driver Jeffrey Babal, adding that what will be missed is the tight-knit community spirit.
Residents urge that in the allocation of new housing, no one is left behind or overlooked due to favouritism.
A local sundry shop owner, preferring anonymity, has opted to get rid of her stock before the eviction deadline on Monday (September 30).
“It’s better to close the shop now, with no certainty on how much longer we can remain,” she said.
Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, having met with residents on Sunday (Sept 29), said he would write to the Land and Property Development Corporation (LPPB) requesting leniency and clarity on relocation eligibility.
The Works Minister conveyed the tenants’ willingness to relocate, provided suitable housing is offered, and noted that LPPB has plans to work with the residents’ needs.
The Tanjung Aru flats are located on prime land and are part of the proposed Tanjung Aru Eco Development Project which plans for various high-end facilities.
Originally given until the end of 2021 to move, some residents remain as the state government deliberates on the redevelopment project’s future.
