Logging in Kampung Timpangoh sours environment

DAP Sabah claimed to be unhappy that the government is implementing the mini-estate program or MESEJ without consideration of the environment.The government has embarked on a rubber plantation for the people of Kg Timpangoh, Sugud in the district of Penampang.According to the village folks, 300 acres have been cleared and another 200 acres will follow suit. The clearing from the road is done on government land which is close to the 1000-acre Sugud Firewood Reserve.

DAP Sabah secretary and Penampang chief Edwin Bosi, DAP Moyog chief Henry Mogindol and his deputy Franky Lobinjang made a site inspection in Kg Timpangoh Laut recently after receiving complaints from the public.

DAP Sabah claims that it has no problem with the government providing assistance to the village folks but would like to know if they have had an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) done for the project.

The clearing is said to be impacting the beautiful Timpangoh river which will definitely reduce or eliminate fishes from the river and render its water undrinkable. The use of pesticides and fertilizers will also find its way to the river.

DAP Sabah feels that the government should have discussed the matter with all the stakeholders including the Penampang Tourism Board before embarking on a project that can have negative impact to the environment.

The logs which were chopped down were not small which implies that they are from the “virgin forest” and this will cause grave ecological impact. The Sugud Recreation Park, which is within the vicinity will also be affected from the clearing and change in landscape.

Timpangoh’s beautiful forest and river has much tourism potential and is within the reach of the city folks.

The government is encouraged to assist the village folks by helping them develop their land for rubber. In this respect, many villagers in the Penampang district will benefit from the program, not just the people in Kg Timpangoh Laut.

DAP Sabah feels that only lands suitable for rubber should be developed. The government should assist the villagers by processing and approving their land applications. With titled lands, they can also help themselves.