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Dedicated Batang Igan ferry suggested for plantations

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Juanda (centre) presents a gift to Razi Sitam (second left) at the Betong Division Integrity Tour Series 4/2022 in Debak. Photo: OSMAN RAZALI

DEBAK: Oil palm plantation companies have been urged to provide for themselves a ferry service crossing Batang Igan specifically to transport their trucks.

Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, said this would be a win-win approach as it would also resolve various difficulties complained about by the local people.

“The Batang Igan ferry is the only one that starts around 4 am, but until noon oil palm lorries are still queuing up waiting to cross. This shows that there are many of them.

“Therefore, I would be glad if the Public Works Department (PWD) agrees to suggest to the government that the oil palm lorries belonging to plantations should have a dedicated ferry.

“In my opinion, the companies are more than able of owning ferries.

“I understand the need to cut costs and making a living but safety should come first; rules should be followed, and we must know that ferries also serve villagers and not just oil palm companies.

“So, when a public facility is not enough for everybody and everything, the companies concerned must be smart enough to provide for themselves.

“If in Batang Paloh the plantation has its ferry, it should be possible to do the same here (Batang Igan) with the five, six large public listed companies,” he said.

The Jemoreng assemblyman said this when met by reporters after officiating at the Betong Division Integrity Tour Series 4/2022 at the Riveria Sports Centre, today.

He explained that if they have a ferry for themselves the oil palm plantations would contribute more to the national economy because the movement of lorries would increase.

Deputy Minister of Community Welfare Mohammad Razi Sitam, Adana Jed Union Unit director and Betong District Officer Sofhi Jebal were also present at the function.

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