Foreigners take over vacant land for illegal farming, sparking outrage [WATCH]

PETALING JAYA: Foreigners have reportedly occupied vacant land near Jalan PJU 10 in Damansara Damai to run illegal farms, sparking frustration among residents over the lack of enforcement.

The foreigners, believed to be Southeast Asian nationals, have allegedly treated the land as their own, passing the plots down to relatives and acquaintances over the last decade.

A check by Harian Metro found that the illegal farmers intentionally left tall trees standing around the perimeter to camouflage the activity as ordinary scrubland. However, aerial views revealed cleared land in the centre used for cultivation, accessible via a small path at the top of a hill.

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A resident in her 60s, known only as Shahirah, said the majority of the foreigners involved were United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cardholders.

She said that whenever these individuals were resettled in third countries, the farms were handed over to their relatives or compatriots.

"They come here to earn money and then bring their siblings over. When the UNHCR moves them to another country, their family members take over the farming.

"This has been happening for more than 10 years, but activity increased during the Movement Control Order (MCO)," she said.

Another resident, Aishah, 45, who has lived in the area for 14 years, questioned why the illegal farms had expanded despite the presence of authorities.

A check by Harian Metro found that the illegal farmers intentionally left tall trees standing around the perimeter to camouflage the activity as ordinary scrubland. - NSTP/ MOHD HARIS FADLI MOHD FADZIL

She claimed that when residents questioned the farmers, the foreigners alleged they were paying rent to certain parties.

"They also live in rented units here. If asked who permitted them to open the farms, they claim an agent has paid rent to the authorities," she said.

Aishah added that while the foreigners did not cause trouble with locals, residents were aggrieved by the ease with which they could start businesses.

She said the residents would prefer the land be used by locals or developed into public facilities, such as additional parking to ease congestion.

The issue recently gained traction on social media after photos and video clips of the farming activity went viral.

Selangor Immigration Department director Khairrul Aminus Kamaruddin said the department was aware of the matter and assured that appropriate action would be taken. - NST

Foreigners have reportedly occupied vacant land near Jalan PJU 10 in Damansara Damai to run illegal farms, sparking frustration among residents over the lack of enforcement. - NSTP/ MOHD HARIS FADLI MOHD FADZIL