SIMANGGANG: A proposed additional allocation of RM1 million to carry out river cleaning and maintenance works in Lubok Antu is expected to enhance the sustainability of water resources in the area.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof said the increase brings the total allocation to RM2.5 million, compared to the original request of RM1.5 million.
“Initially, I thought RM1.5 million was sufficient, but after further review, an additional RM1 million is still needed.
“Therefore, I agree that the river cleaning and maintenance efforts should be carried out as it is a shared responsibility.
“Water originates from rivers, so it is our responsibility to ensure this source is always preserved. If we ourselves do not take care of the rivers, pollution will occur and ultimately affect our lives,” he said.
He was speaking at the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programme and Luncheon of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) Sarawak Zone Squad following a visit to the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Dam yesterday (April 12).
He said in today’s global landscape, control over water and energy resources is an important factor in ensuring economic growth and the well-being of the people.
“Countries that are able to manage water and energy well will be more competitive. Water and energy are interrelated because water is needed to generate energy, while energy is required to treat water.
“Both must be managed in a balanced manner without harming the environment,” he added.
Earlier, Deputy Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh requested that the allocation be utilised to ensure rivers continue to be strengthened as a source of livelihood for rural communities.
He highlighted the need to upgrade the Ulu Engkari road, which could unlock the area’s potential for commercial agriculture, ecotourism, and green energy such as solar or bioenergy.
“The only road project in my area that has yet to be completed is the Ulu Engkari road, at least up to the last primary school, SK Ulu Engkari,” he said.
At the same event, Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) group chief operating officer Datuk James Ung also presented contributions to three houses of worship in Batang Ai as part of a community development initiative.
The contributions involved Masjid Nurul Huda in Kampung Engkilili as well as St Philip’s Church and St Michael’s Church in Lubok Antu, including the installation of solar systems to ensure a more stable and sustainable energy supply.
