A 253 hectare land in Tanjung Arang, Pulau Sebatik will be proposed as the new settlement for 290 residents of Kg Wallace Bay, said Sebatik state assemblyman Abdul Muis Picho. .

He and Sabah Land and Survey Department director Datuk Osman Jamal had visited the site and found it suitable as it is located near the coast and the soil stable. .

"I will bring this proposal to the State Legislative Assembly in November so that the area can be gazetted as settlement," he said in a statement here Sunday. .

On development projects, he said a concrete bridge would be constructed and the one kilometre road in Kampung Sungai Lahi would be improved for the benefit of residents. .

Over 2.5 kilometres of agricultural roads in Kampung Mentadak Baru would also be improved for small farmers especially rubber smallholders to market their produce. .

Muis hopes people of Pulau Sebatik could evaluate development and not be fooled by lies spread by certain quarters that it was devoid of development. .

Many government high impact projects had brought water and electricity supply, better roads and public facilities such as jetties and sports courts. .

Other development enjoyed by residents were a new police station at Kg Bergosong and Kg Wallace Bay, Masjid Kg Bergosong and Masjid Kg Sungai Pukul. .

Sejahtera Mini Estate Project had started operation on the island in an effort to help the hardcore poor. .

"The government can't provide everything overnight but that does not mean that the people are neglected and don't enjoy the fruits of development,"he added.-Bernama