KUCHING, Nov 9: Sarawak Energy, in collaboration with Ngapuh Eco Lodge and the local community of Kampung Nyegol, embarked on a tree planting initiative in the Upper Bengoh Dam area, Padawan.
The tree planting initiative unfolded in three distinct phases, commencing on Oct 26, where 400 native and indigenous tree species found their roots. The second phase, on Nov 2, furthered the cause with the planting of 500 trees.
Culminating today, the final phase saw 600 trees planted, with the active involvement of 35 personnel from Sarawak Energy’s Legal and Compliance Department.
Expressing his satisfaction, the programme coordinator Solomon Hii highlighted the significance of completing the tree planting initiative, underscoring its role in rehabilitating and conserving the local ecosystem.
The primary objective of this programme is to instill a culture of sustainability among participants for the benefit of future generations in Sarawak.
Nestled within the Bengoh lake region, Kampung Nyegol is among the last three villages that grace this serene landscape.
The majestic Bengoh Range, draped in verdant vegetation, lush vegetable patches, and fruitful orchards, stands as a grand custodian of the area.
The local community currently manages an eco lodge along the river, extending an open invitation for visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of nature.
This sanctuary from city life offers a genuine detox and escape, presenting an array of activities including river swimming, bamboo rafting, and the delight of relishing traditional bamboo-cooked delicacies.
Accessing Kampung Nyegol involves a serene 30-minute boat ride from Bengoh Dam jetty that provides a sweeping panoramic view of the lake. Alternatively, if the water level is low, visitors can embark on a leisurely 40-minute hike and crossing a suspension bamboo bridge to get to the eco lodge.
Not just a remarkable structure, the Bengoh Dam not only houses a reservoir capable of holding 114 million cubic metres of water across a catchment area spanning 127 square kilometres to meet present and future needs but also serves as a breathtaking attraction. Therefore, the responsibility to preserve and enrich its ecosystem becomes paramount.
In a media release, Sarawak Energy said the tree planting programme is also in-line with Sarawak’s initiative to plant 35 million trees to support the 100 million Tree Planting Campaign 2021-2025 initiated by the Federal government.
The target is to contribute to the mitigation of climate change, aligned with Sarawak Energy’s 10 Years Integrated Tree Planting, Protection and Habitat Restoration Campaign which aims to allow for more holistic and effective rehabilitation and conservation efforts of the degraded ecosystem.
Additionally, Sarawak Energy’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 15 Life on Land emphasises protecting, restoring and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems; sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. — DayakDaily
