KOTA KINABALU: Youth activists in Ulu Papar, a region not far from here, are urging the government to explore alternative solutions for providing a consistent water supply instead of constructing a dam. These young individuals, who recently participated in a survey workshop organized by the Jaringan Orang Asal SeMalaysia (Youth) non-governmental organization, do not support the government’s decision to proceed with the plan to build the Kaiduan Dam.
In a joint statement, they expressed opposition to the construction of the Kaiduan or Papar Dam and called for a more sustainable, environmentally-friendly, and respectful approach in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiative proposed by the state government.
They also urged the state government, as well as Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, to consider the suggestion made by the International Water Association (IWA) and other state leaders, who have advocated for alternative measures to address Sabah’s longstanding water issues. The IWA and former Putatan MP, Awang Husaini Sahari, have recently recommended the construction of coastal reservoirs as a more cost-effective solution to water disruption and shortages in the state.
The IWA previously highlighted that water is a crucial resource for sustainable development, yet many areas, including Kota Kinabalu, still face low water pressure. The proposed coastal reservoirs align with the current paradigm shift in water source development, moving away from traditional dams towards downstream reservoirs.
Furthermore, geologist and former Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) lecturer Prof Dr Felix Tongkul has previously emphasized the importance of exploring alternative approaches to dam construction, which could have negative impacts on the environment and indigenous communities.
In addition to their stance on the dam, the youth activists are also appealing to the government for the issuance of land title grants to Ulu Papar residents and the expedited construction of safer roads. The current road conditions in the area pose risks to road users.
The activists expressed their hope for more agricultural innovation specifically in Ulu Papar and acknowledged the uncertainties faced by the local communities due to the proposed Kaiduan Dam. They fear being displaced from their ancestral lands and emphasize their desire for security, safety, and the ability to continue living in the village they have called home for generations.
They implore the government to develop feasible solutions and adopt sustainable and comprehensive development plans that do not negatively impact the villagers. The proposal to construct a dam to address water issues on the west coast of Sabah was initially introduced over a decade ago by the Barisan Nasional state government but has faced repeated rejection by villagers and environmentalists, citing concerns about evacuation and flooding.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
