Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad stated that the Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia has confirmed that there is no illegal logging or encroachment in the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve (HSUM) in Sik. He emphasized the ministry’s continuous monitoring of the situation to prevent any such occurrences.
Nik Nazmi also mentioned that further investigations would be conducted based on complaints received from NGOs and satellite data to ensure that no encroachment has taken place. He conveyed these updates during a press conference at the Sekolah Menengah Agama Tarbiah Diniah on Sunday.
He stressed that the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve plays a crucial role in the water supply for states like Kedah, Perlis, and Penang, making it a sensitive area that requires significant attention.
RimbaWatch, an environmental NGO, recently claimed that logging activities in the HSUM area have impacted Tasik Muda, the main water source for users in Penang and Kedah, leading to sedimentation problems. According to a study conducted with satellite imagery, the Muda Dam has been accumulating deposits since March 2023, with the situation worsening in October of the same year.
Nik Nazmi addressed Penang Chief Minister Chan Kon Yeow’s proposal to establish the Ulu Muda Basin Authority for managing the water resources. He mentioned that this proposal was not new and that Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor had raised opposition to this suggestion, stating that it was an interference in Kedah’s affairs.
He stated that the ministry would continue to monitor the situation and conduct further investigations as per the satellite data to ensure the protection of the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve. He highlighted the significance of the reserve’s basin, emphasizing its impact on the water supply to multiple states.
With concerns raised by NGOs and environmental organizations, the ministry would take allegations of illegal logging and encroachment seriously and act accordingly based on investigations. Nik Nazmi assured that the ministry would take necessary measures to protect the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve and its critical role in maintaining water supplies for various states.
Nik Nazmi also addressed the proposal to establish the Ulu Muda Basin Authority, citing opposition from Kedah’s Menteri Besar and stating the need for amicable resolutions to such matters, emphasizing the importance of protecting the reserve and its impact on water resources.
The minister’s statements at the press conference regarding the confirmation from the Forestry Department, ongoing monitoring, and the sensitivity of the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve conveyed the government’s commitment to addressing concerns and ensuring its protection.
His remarks regarding the impact on water supplies, the role of the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve, and the need for continuous monitoring and investigations demonstrated the ministry’s dedication to addressing such issues and protecting Malaysia’s ecological resources.
The clarity provided by the minister regarding the situation, the ongoing monitoring, and the need for further investigations emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns and ensuring the protection of vital ecological areas like the Ulu Muda Forest Reserve.
