KUCHING, Jan 16: No local community groups or individuals have claimed to give consent to the Sarawak government to build a cascading dam at Sungai Belaga, says Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Hulu Rajang branch chairman Abun Sui Anti.
In a press statement issued today, Abun Sui said he had received complaints from residents in Belaga following news reports saying that Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has received permission from the local communities around Sungai Gaat in Kapit, Sungai Tutoh in Baram, and Sungai Belaga in Belaga to build cascading dams.
Abun Sui said the news went viral on social media, prompting Belaga residents to question who consented to the Sarawak government.
“The people in Belaga are not against progress and development, but there needs to be comprehensive engagement, especially with the affected communities and the people of Belaga first,” he said.
He added that with the Bakun and Murum dams in the district, there is sufficient electricity supply but the voices of those affected by the construction of the dams could still be heard asking the Sarawak government to fulfil their outstanding promises.
“Therefore, if the Sarawak government is keen on developing Belaga, its people request that Belaga be elevated as the 13th division of Sarawak first.
“We are confident that other development will follow according to the needs and suitability in the near future,” he said.
It was reported that on Jan 14, Abang Johari said Sarawak would build three cascading dams in the three areas after receiving support from local communities. He said he had received letters of consent from the local communities in the three areas. — DayakDaily
