KOTA KINABALU: State Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has clarified the status of government land on Balambangan Island, emphasising that it has not been allocated to anyone.

The issue was raised during the state assembly sitting when questions arose regarding alleged sand-mining activities on the island.

Responding to inquiries from assembly members, Hajiji said, "So far, state government land on Balambangan Island has not been allocated to anyone. There were previous applications, but due to controversy, the land was returned, and since then, there have been none."

He further revealed that the Land and Survey Department had been tasked with investigating encroachments on the island, with appropriate actions being taken by the department.

Balambangan Island's coastal seas are part of a marine park and are designated as a Priority Conservation Area under the Coral Triangle.

Concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of activities such as silica extraction on the island.

In February, Dr Alfred Raymond from the International Union for Conservation of Nature emphasised the need for a detailed cost and benefit analysis of such activities, highlighting their potential impact on the environment, human health, and nearby communities, particularly in the Tun Mustapha Marine Park.

Regarding the relocation of villagers from Gaya Island, Hajiji said that plans were still in the works, stressing the government's commitment to ensuring the island's cleanliness, safety, and attractiveness for tourism.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1042314/sabah-cm-addresses-concerns-over-balambang-island-status