Kuala Belait - The fate of some local entrepreneurs in the Belait District came to light yesterday during the 9th Legislative Council Meeting after a member asked the government on steps taken to accommodate the people's needs.

An issue raised by YB Awang Haji Mohd Yusof bin Haji Dulamin was the eviction notice given to businesses at the industrial area along Sungai Dukun to make way for a new industrial development site.

"They have been asked to move with due haste and did not consider the predicament these entrepreneurs would face in searching for a new site and this is very disappointing.

"Will the government provide them with a new site? If so, then where? If otherwise, how will they continue with their businesses? Or will the relevant authorities provide them with any form of assistance?" He also called on the government to look into this particular situation.

In response, the Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar, explained that the land utilised by these entrepreneurs is not under the ministry's jurisdiction but is rather classified as TOL land that has been taken over by the Ministry of Energy at the Prime Minister's Office for the construction of a marine base.

"Nothing is promised but if these individuals wish to ask for space then they will be given due consideration if a space is advertised for use."