Kota bharu: The demolition of illegal jetties on the Kelantan-Thailand border is considered a step in the right direction to combat smuggling, but it needs to be done carefully, said Kelantan Deputy Menteri Besar, Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan. He emphasized that not all illegal bases along Sungai Golok were built for smuggling purposes, but rather some have been used for daily activities of residents for decades.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Fadzli stated that the intention is not to defend illegal activities but to understand the needs of the local people. Many jetties are used for the convenience of the residents, including familial connections between the people of Kelantan and Pekan Golok. He urged all parties, including the state and federal governments, to assist the affected residents, as the demolition of illegal jetties could disrupt their daily income.

The state government has several forms of special assistance available, such as aid for entrepreneurship, single mothers, and businesses, which can be utilized by those affected. Mohamed Fadzli added that the federal government, through relevant departments, can also cooperate to provide support.

He assured that the state government would assess each case individually to determine the appropriate form of assistance and work with the Social Welfare Department. The primary focus of law enforcement is to prevent smuggling, especially involving drugs, rather than to impose pressure on the people.

Previously, Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat announced that 153 out of 212 illegal jetties built on government land would be demolished starting next month. In addition, Mohamed Fadzli announced there would be no public holiday this Sunday in conjunction with the birthday of the Sultan of Kelantan on September 29 and 30.