MALAYSIA: Groups studying project’s EIA
© 1995-2001 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd
August 28, 2001
KOTA KINABALU: Enviro-nmental groups here are scrutinising the terms of reference of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) of a controversial forest plantation project at Kalabakan in the southeastern Tawau district.
Sabah Environmental Pro-tection Association (Sepa) secretary-general S.M. Muthu said the group had sought feedback of an engineer to assess the terms of reference for the EIA as proposed by its consultant, Chemsain Konsultan Sdn Bhd.
“The terms are crucial because they will determine what the EIA is supposed to cover.“For example, whether an audit of the flora and fauna of the area is needed, or if detailed migratory patterns of wildlife are also necessary,” he said.Muthu said Sepa would submit its recommendations before the Sept 7 deadline to the state Environmental Conservation Department which had sought public comments.
The 241,400ha forest plantation, part of a mainland Chinese-Malaysian RM4bil pulp and paper mill joint venture project, had drawn concerns from Sepa and other groups, as it would mean the clear cutting of secondary forest and pockets of virgin jungles in the wildlife-rich area.
Environmental groups had expressed worries over the impact the project would have on the Danum Valley and Maliau Basin conservation areas located near the proposed forest plantation site.
Muthu said Sepa had given its initial feedback to Chemsain officials as what should be included in the EIA last December.
Among others, the association highlighted the need for the establishment of a wildlife corridor between the Danum Valley and Maliau Basin to enable free movement of animals in the two conservation areas.
He said Sepa had also called for the setting up of an independent body to ensure that all conditions stated in the EIA were complied with.
“For now, we can’t rely on the Department of Environment or the Sabah Environmental Conservation Department. Both have said they lack manpower,” Muthu added.He said Sepa also wanted a condition allowing the developer of the plantation to clear and cut only 5,000ha of jungle and replant the area before moving on to another place.
“Our worry is that the company may clear a large tract of land and then claim that certain parts are not suitable as a forest plantation. That would only further worsen the environmental conditions there,” Muthu said.