KOTA KINABALU: The Ranau local authority has raised concerns over unregulated development on private land around the popular tourist area of Kundasang.
Ranau district officer Tinus Manggam said many landowners and residents carried out small-scale developments without notifying the district office or obtaining proper approval.
"The problem arises when these developments are built on slopes or near roads," he told the media at after presenting the final report on a study by the Sabah Mineral and Geoscience Department at Kampung Mohimboyon in Kundasang.
Tinus said some landowners built shops and restaurants close to or within road reserves which could lead to potential hazards.
Kundasang, about two hours' drive from the state capital, is experiencing a tourism boom, as evident from the traffic jams during weekends and public holidays.
"We have issued notices but conflicts often arise, with some appealing to local leaders for exemption."
Tinus said unplanned development also posed a problem for the district office, especially if there were landslides or accidents.
"In hilly areas around Kundasang, such incidents are likely to happen and managing them would become a challenge for us."
He added that Kampung Mohimboyon, which was at risk of landslides as highlighted by experts, would become the next tourist hotspot as it was also near Kundasang town.
Prior to the release of the report, Tinus said there were already signs of landscape instability in Ranau.
He said due to earth movements, the road was affected and several schools had to be abandoned.
On studies indicating that Kundasang was at risk, Tinus said it was essential for stakeholders to have mitigation measures to minimise economic loss and casualties.
Present were Sabah Mineral and Geoscience director Dr Frederick Francis Tating and Sabah Environmental Protection director Vitalis Moduying.
Vitalis said it was important to incorporate the findings into local development plans to guide future landowners and developers.
"If we know a sensitive area is prone to landslides, developers should be aware of it before they begin construction.
"This could prevent overdevelopment and ensure that we manage these areas effectively," he said, urging them to look into camping activities to prevent a similar incident in Batang Kali that killed 31 people.