WILLEMSTAD - A specific plan for the development of the eastern part of Curaçao remains undisclosed, leaving stakeholders uncertain about the future. In a recent statement to a local newspaper, Willie Maal, representative of the Maal Group which owned the land, expressed his lack of awareness regarding this particular initiative.
Earlier reports indicated that the Maal Group was engaged in negotiations for the sale of a section of their land in Oostpunt (east point). Initially denying the rumors, Willie Maal later admitted after Vidanova released an official statement. Maal highlighted his reservations about the development aspect, as it involved the section previously sold by his family. Selling this portion had been a long-fought battle for Maal and his family.
It has come to light that the Vidanova Pension Fund has acquired the majority of the land in Oostpunt, an area spanning approximately 1000 hectares and under the ownership of the Maal family since 1868. Vidanova believes that this significant purchase presents a unique opportunity for long-term, responsible, and sustainable economic and social development. The benefits extend not only to the fund participants but also to the entire community of Curaçao. Although Vidanova is currently limited to providing a brief announcement, more detailed information about their ongoing plans will be revealed in due course.
The impending sale sets the stage for one of the most substantial real estate transactions in Curaçao over the past three decades. According to Maal, genuine interest and potential buyers have always existed, but hidden agendas from certain groups have consistently obstructed progress and spread misinformation. "There is a lot of misinformation and incorrect information circulating," expressed Maal. He has faced numerous obstacles in his previous attempts to sell. Environmental organizations and government-funded foundations have waged a prolonged battle against the Maal family, impeding their ability to sell or undertake projects on the land. Some environmental groups even resorted to filing lawsuits and making illegitimate claims regarding the coastal conservation area, seemingly driven by their own commercial interests in diving and tourism. Unbeknownst to the Maal family, other environmental organizations had devised plans for an international diving project in the Oostpunt area.
In December 2021, following a civil court verdict, the Government of Curaçao emerged victorious in a case against several of these organizations. The ruling granted permission for a change in the land's designation, paving the way for the possibility of the upcoming sale.
As Curaçao teeters on the brink of this significant real estate transaction, stakeholders eagerly await further updates from Vidanova regarding their future plans. The outcome of this development holds the potential to shape the landscape of the eastern part of the island for years to come.
