Surin, 68, a first generation settler in Tanah Rancangan Pemuda Bukit Goh, said the plants, as well as sweet potatoes and lemongrass were grown about one month after bauxite mining activity was halted.
Three acres of his plot of 5.5 acres had been leased to bauxite operators and mining works began in May 2015.
“Bauxite mining was stopped in October, last year. They had removed the top soil and dug holes (for removing bauxite) and in December, I started planting bananas.
“Since planting these plants. I only water the small palm trees while the banana trees and cassava still survive even in hot weather despite being rarely watered,” he told reporters at his farm on Saturday.
Surin, who has been working on the land since he was 18 years old, said he attempted to plant banana trees when he saw forest trees had begun growing on that empty ground.
“Many have said, former bauxite mined land are infertile. But I feel, if forest trees can grow, what more if trees are deliberately planted and cared for,” he said.
Several researchers have approached him to obtain soil samples for research purposes and Surin gave permission because he was also interested to know the results of the study.
“However, until now I have yet to be contacted (to know the results) from them (researchers),” he said, adding that it was important for the settlers to have knowledge and review the agreement with bauxite operators.
Besides that, to avoid fraud in payment, the signed agreement also should state in detail mentioning the methods of taking out the mineral materials and it was also the operator’s responsibility to re-bury the excavated soil in order not to burden the settlers.
“If not reclaimed, it will cause a huge hole and become a pool of water during heavy rain, therefore it is important for land owners to have knowledge of their land and at the same time look through the agreement made with bauxite operators,” he said.
“The settlers do not have machinery and equipment to perform such works. It is important to be careful and not be blinded by the promise of money by bauxite operators,” he said, adding that he monitors the bauxite mining process in his land every time to ensure the work has
been done according to the agreement.
– BERNAMA