Kedah MB calls on NSC to assist relocation of residents from special security zone

Kedah's Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, has urged the National Security Council (NSC) to aid in the relocation of approximately 5,000 residents from a special security zone in Bukit Malut, Langkawi, to appropriate coastal housing areas. This request has been made repeatedly over the past five years, but has reportedly not been met by the Home Ministry.

Sanusi clarified that the majority of the residents are not Rohingya, contrary to previous assumptions. His community's ancestors were originally from Kedah and resettled in southern Myanmar over time before requesting return to Malaysia. Some ancestors of the community were even forcibly taken to Myanmar as part of the Death Railway workers and later escaped to Burma.

A survey conducted by Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) found that 92% of the 5,000 residents hold Malaysian identity cards. In 1980s, the community was relocated back to Kedah and given federal agency land at Bukit Malut in Langkawi for resettlement.

Sanusi emphasized that the Home Ministry should assist in the safe relocation of the community to coastal areas, as most residents are fishermen and are an integral part of the island resort's ecosystem. The residents also contribute to the local economy, with many working in the civil service and tourism industry such as hotels and restaurants.

Sanusi stressed that Langkawi must maintain its unique identity and attractions to differentiate itself from destinations like Phuket and Bali. He also highlighted the need for improved ferry connectivity due to siltation in the rivers near Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis, suggesting that the Transport Ministry should dredge the riverbed or find alternative jetties to increase ferry frequency and boost domestic tourism.