Engineers support protection of Sabah water resources
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Engineers Association (SEA) and the Institution of Engineers Malaysia Sabah Branch (IEMS) support and commend the Sabah State Government in its recent decision to gazette the water catchments within its borders.
The proactive move is laudable and underscores Sabah’s commitment to sustainable water management and environmental conservation, said IEM Sabah Branch chairman Ir. Willy Chin and SEA president Ir. Paul Yap.
“Water catchments serve as the lifeline of our ecosystems, providing clean water for communities, agriculture and industry. By formalising the protection of these vital catchments, the Sabah Government demonstrates forward-thinking leadership in safeguarding our natural resources for the present and future generations.
“As engineers dedicated to advancing sustainable development, environmental protection and resilience, SEA/ IEMS recognise the immense value of this gazettement. It aligns with our vision of creating a sustainable and thriving environment where communities can prosper while respecting the delicate balance of nature,” Chin and Yap pointed out in a statement on Monday.
They urge all stakeholders, including engineers, policymakers, and the public, to actively support and participate in the conservation efforts of these gazetted water catchments with the State Government. Together, we can ensure the long-term well-being and sustainability of the water catchments and the water resources these catchments strategically bring.
SEA and IEMS extend their deep appreciation to the Sabah State Government for this significant step towards environmental stewardship. “We stand ready to offer our support and expertise in the planning and implementation of sustainable water management in Sabah,” said Chin and Yap.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan recently announced that Sabah will gazette all its water resources to tackle water supply problems.
The Sabah Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister said this is to safeguard the state’s water resources and allow the water department to manage the water supply.
He also said the state government has identified several areas in Tuaran, Papar, Tawau, Sandakan, Semporna, Kudat and Penampang for this purpose.
Jeffrey said the gazette will include areas that cannot be disturbed, whether they belong to the government or are outside national parks or forest reserves.