Viral 4-Storey Flat Allegedly Occupied by Rohingya Residents Sparks Concern Among Malaysians

Recently, Malaysian actor and radio presenter Azad Jasmin, better known as Pak Azad, 50, revealed the existence of a four-storey flat believed to be occupied by the Rohingya community.

In a video that has since gone viral, the flat appears dilapidated, with suspicious water pipe connections and electrical wiring. The building is said to be located in Sungai Tekali, Hulu Langat.

 

 

 

 

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Unsurprisingly, the existence of the flat has raised concerns among Malaysians, especially following claims that the building had access to basic utilities such as water and electricity.

Some also questioned how such a structure could have existed for so long without action being taken by the authorities.

About 400 Rohingya refugees believed to have built a settlement in the area

Following the viral video, Dusun Tua assemblyman (ADUN) Datuk Johan Abd Aziz said the issue had already been raised during Hulu Langat District Action Council meetings since last year.

According to him, various enforcement measures, monitoring activities, and operations had been carried out by the authorities.

Image Credit: FMT

However, Johan said the root cause of the issue lies with landowners who allowed their land to be used for settlements and the construction of structures without approval, including the provision of utilities such as water and electricity.

“Based on the information and actions undertaken by the relevant agencies, it is clear that the role of landowners is among the main factors contributing to the prolonged nature of this issue."

“For that reason, enforcement should not focus solely on the occupants, but also on those who permitted and facilitated such activities on their land,” he said, as reported by NST.

Additionally, Johan said it is believed that about 400 Rohingya refugees have established a settlement in the area.

Premises reportedly raided by authorities last year

Meanwhile, Kajang district police chief ACP Naazron Abdul Yusof said the illegal flat was raided by authorities in February last year.

Reportedly, a total of 45 foreigners were arrested, involving 35 men, three women, and four children.

Furthermore, a local man who claimed to be the son of the homeowner was also issued immigration-related documents during the raid.

“All arrests are being investigated by the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) under Section 51(3)(a) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155) and detained under Section 51(5)(b) of the same Act.”

Police also reportedly said the building is now allegedly occupied by two families, the property owner and a local tenant.

Featured Image Credit: OhMedia!, Harian Metro