KUANTAN – The settlement pattern of foreign nationals, particularly the Rohingya ethnic group in this district, is seen to be changing as they begin renting housing areas and low-cost apartments on the outskirts of the city.
Previously, some of this group resided in open settlement areas or remote locations.
However, they are now seen to be more inclined to rent formal residential properties such as terraced houses and low-cost apartment units.
A survey by Sinar found that residential areas in Medan Warisan are among the locations said to be a focal point, with these housing units occupied by the group as well as other foreign nationals.
Observations also found that several apartment units in the area show fairly frequent movement of foreign individuals entering and leaving, although the actual status of the occupants could not be fully confirmed.
In addition, several commercial premises in the area were also found to be used by the group to conduct small-scale business activities believed to be operating under third-party licences.
A resident, Ahmad, in his 50s, claimed that he had observed a significant change in the movement pattern of occupants in a nearby apartment block over the past few years.
He said that the situation is clearly different from before, with an increase in the movement of individuals in and out of certain units.
“Sometimes you see a lot of people coming in and out of the block. The situation is quite noticeable compared to before,” he said.
He said that this has raised concerns regarding comfort and the living environment in the neighbourhood.
A similar sentiment was expressed by Razali, in his 40s, who claimed that there are also small-scale business activities being carried out in several premises within the residential area.
“In this area (Medan Warisan), there are indeed small shops such as eateries and grocery stores run on a small scale.
“Not all, but in some cases there are activities like collecting used items and asking for donations that make residents feel uncomfortable,” he said.