Two grassroots movements, the Taskforce Against Kaiduan Dam (Takad) and Save Papar River (SPR), have expressed their objection to the construction of a dam in either Papar or Penampang, following the state government’s announcement of a feasibility study. In a joint statement on Saturday (Aug 26), Takad and SPR called on the government to reconsider the plan and explore other alternatives. Diana Sipail, chairperson of Takad, highlighted that geologist Dr. Felix Tongkul had proposed several people- and environmentally-friendly alternatives, which were also cost-effective. She urged the government to choose an alternative that aligns with Tongkul’s suggestions. Additionally, the construction of coastal reservoirs, instead of traditional dams, was recommended by members of the International Water Association (IWA) Datuk Dr. Amarjit Singh and Lim Sin Poh, and supported by Awang Husaini Sahari, PKR vice-president and former Putatan MP.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced on Friday (Aug 25) that a feasibility study was being conducted for the Papar or Kaiduan dam as a long-term solution to water issues in Sabah and to meet the needs of investors. However, the local communities have been opposing the dam’s construction since it was first proposed over 10 years ago in Moyog (Penampang) as the Kaiduan Dam project.
Jackly Likinsim, chairman of SPR, claimed that an engagement session regarding the proposed Papar Dam’s feasibility study was hastily conducted on Thursday (Aug 24) between government representatives and residents from Kampung Bisuang, Kampung Kaiduan, and Kampung Bolotikon. He further alleged that a government-appointed native community representative informed the villagers that they were not allowed to ask any questions during the session and would face consequences if they did. This led to tension at the beginning of the session and the intervention of enforcement officers. Likinsim mentioned that they filed a police report the following day at the Papar police station. He emphasized the importance of freedom of speech for the people and raised the existence of alternative solutions, including natural water catchment areas and enhanced water management, apart from constructing dams.
It is crucial to consider the potential negative impact of dam construction on the environment and indigenous communities who rely on natural resources for their well-being, according to Sipail.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
