5,000 Orang Asli risk being cut off during monsoon

MORE than 5,000 Orang Asli residents in four remote settlements may be cut off during the monsoon season due to damaged roads, landslides and floods.

Galas assemblyman Datuk Mohd Syahbuddin Hashim said the affected settlements were Pos Bihai, Pos Belatim, Pos Balar and Pos Hau, involving more than 1,000 households.

He said six locations, including Bukit Pasir, Bukit Kelabu, Bukit Sabun and Bukit Piyel, had been identified as landslide hotspots that required immediate attention.

"The Orang Asli Development Department (Jakoa) and parties implementing the Rural Link Road project have taken action at these sites before.

"With the monsoon season approaching, these areas must receive attention and regular maintenance so that landslides do not pose a danger to road users.

"Damaged and muddy roads can make it difficult for Orang Asli in remote areas to leave their settlements," he said in Pos Balar.

The northeast monsoon is expected to begin today and continue until March.

Syahbuddin said slippery dirt tracks caused by heavy rain could heighten the risk of accidents for villagers travelling along ravine-adjacent roads.

He advised Orang Asli to avoid those routes during downpours.

"During an emergency, residents can also contact Jakoa for assistance."