Govt will continue Op Gading in Camerons to clear illegal farmers

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PETALING JAYA: The government will continue its Operasi Gading in Cameron Highlands which had stopped since the May 9 polls, said Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

In a statement issued today, she said Op Gading’s name may be changed to Op Lestari to reflect the government’s desire to help smallholders.

She said the next phase of Op Gading would prioritise strengthening the welfare and well-being of smallholders and the Orang Asli, and environmental protection.

He said the strategy was important because Cameron Highlands was a major contributor to the country’s agricultural and food security.

Wan Azizah said although agricultural activities were important, so was preserving the environment.

Op Gading was implemented from 2015 to 2018. Op Gading IV, which began on Jan 1 was temporarily suspended from May till October.

The series of operations were aimed at addressing complaints about over-development of hillside land and illegal cultivation.

Wan Azizah said the government was aware that Op Gading was causing discomfort among smallholders who had worked on the land for generations as their source of livelihood.

She said the next meeting would be held in July to review the implementation of Op Gading. - FMT