KUCHING: Uncontrolled bulldozing and land-clearing by a plantation company has led to Sungai Krangan in Balai Ringin, Serian, being inundated with floating debris and driftwood.
The Natural Resources and Environmental Board (NREB) said the situation has threatened the Water Intake Point (WIP) that supplies water to the Balai Ringin water treatment plant.
NREB controller Jack anak Liam said the board has initiated measures to address the situation, following a preliminary investigation.
"The incident has led to significant environmental and socio-economic impacts," he said when responding to media reports on the massive logjam.
He said the affected river is not only vital for the water supply, but also serves as an important resource for the local population.
"We are taking this matter very seriously and have already taken the following steps, such as taking immediate action against the company involved," he said.
Jack said the company has been penalised for its violations, particularly for clearing buffer zones along the river within their plantation, which are critical in preventing such environmental problems.
He said NREB is conducting a thorough investigation to determine if there are any
additional violations within the buffer zones.
"If there is any additional violations found, we will initiate an investigation and legal action will be taken against the responsible parties, including bringing them to court for prosecution," Jack said.
He said that he company has been instructed to immediately remove and clear all debris and logs obstructing the river.
This, he said, was essential to restore the normal flow of the river, prevent possible flooding, and ensure that the intake point and the villagers' livelihoods are protected.
He said the company is also required to rehabilitate the degraded areas by planting native tree species at the affected buffer zones.
This is necessary to restore ecological balance and prevent similar environmental damage in the future, he said.
"NREB is committed to enforcing environmental laws and ensuring that such incidents are addressed quickly and effectively," Jack said.
He said the board will continue to monitor the situation closely, take all necessary measures to protect the environment and the well-being of local communities, and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.