By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
KUALA SELANGOR, Jan 8 — The state government’s poverty eradication committee is ready to meet with Ladang Mary’s management and representatives to find a solution to several perennial issues raised by disgruntled residents of the rural farm, including problems related to roads.
State executive councillor for poverty eradication V. Papparaidu’s policy adviser R. Ananthan said a meeting is scheduled to be held at the State Secretary’s Office next month to discuss the matter in detail, which will be chaired by his superior.
It will also be attended by Perikatan Nasional’s Permatang state assemblyman Nurul Syazwani Noh.
“Last month, Syazwani visited the state executive councillor’s office to discuss the issues at Ladang Mary. Papparaidu has taken the initiative to address the problems faced by residents.
“The issues pertaining to the farm’s management over the past 20 years are quite serious. Some of the main concerns include poor road conditions at Ladang Mary, Ladang Sungai Tinggi, and Ladang Minyak, which have caused housing and flooding problems, as well as disrupted school sessions.
“Papparaidu has agreed to convene a coordination meeting with all relevant parties to address the issues amicably. We are committed to do our best to resolve them as soon as possible,” he said today.
Earlier, Ananthan represented Papparaidu at an hour-long dialogue session with some 50 residents of Ladang Mary, which was also attended by Syazwani and representatives of the residents’ association and farm.
When met after the meeting, Syazwani expressed her gratitude to the state government for its concern and commitment to resolving the long-standing issues which have burdened the residents for decades.
“The state executive councillor’s seriousness in addressing the issues demonstrates his determination to assist the people, even in an Opposition constituency.
“I hope by sitting together at the same table, we can collaboratively address the issues faced by the residents and simultaneously foster positive change. This demonstrates political maturity,” she said.
Meanwhile, one of the residents’ representatives, R. Murugis, 69, expressed hope that the issues they are currently facing can be resolved soon through a thoughtful approach.
“Many people encounter problems, including fatal accidents, as a consequence of poorly maintained and lit roads,” he said.
