Darul Hana demonstrates how SIA-informed resettlement can rebuild trust, safeguard livelihoods and preserve social networks through fair compensation, community engagement and inclusive planning.
Resettlement programmes often prioritize compensation and replacement housing, while the social relationships and livelihood systems that sustain affected communities receive less attention. This paper examines the Darul Hana Redevelopment Project in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia involving 13 traditional settlements and approximately 4,426 families. Drawing on the 2018 Social Impact Assessment (SIA), community engagement records and project implementation documents, the paper explores how concerns about compensation, family separation, community identity and livelihood disruption influenced resettlement planning. Key measures included transparent compensation procedures, continuous community engagement, phased relocation, preservation of village social networks, housing provision for extended families, and livelihood support through entrepreneurship and skills development programmes. Phase 1 involved the resettlement of 564 core families, alongside the construction of 209 houses for extended families at Sungai Bedaun. Project records indicate more than 95% acceptance of compensation and relocation. The findings highlight that successful resettlement requires more than financial compensation and physical relocation. Building community trust, protecting social networks and supporting livelihood continuity are equally important. The paper demonstrates how SIA can guide socially responsible resettlement while highlighting the importance of long-term monitoring to assess livelihood recovery and community wellbeing.
Saiful Bahari Amra Ramly is Senior Manager at LCDA, Sarawak, and MSIA Vice President, with 25+ years’ experience in social impact assessment, community engagement and urban redevelopment.