KUCHING: The Sarawak government is taking steps to restore Baleh’s ecosystem by planting ‘ensurai’ trees, which serve as a key food source for the highly valued ‘empurau’ fish.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg described Baleh as a scenic riverine area with strong tourism potential.
He said the initiative will not only preserve the environment but also unlock eco-tourism potential in the area.
“We’ve asked the Forest and Agriculture Departments to start replanting ‘ensurai’, which is crucial in reviving the natural food chain for ‘empurau’.
“With the return of ‘empurau’, this place could become a unique attraction and at the same time boost the local economy.
“The effort must be carried out collectively through the ‘Sarawak Civil Service (SCS) One Team’ approach to ensure long-term impact,” he said during the Gawai Dayak celebration organised by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex on Tuesday.
On a related note, Abang Johari said that the state government was studying the possibility of setting up a Lake Development Authority (LDA) to oversee the sustainable management of lakes and reservoirs across Sarawak, including natural lakes like Bengoh and man-made dam lakes.
“This will give us a more structured framework to develop such areas as eco-tourism assets,” he added.
