THE Shah Alam Community Forest Society (SACFS) and Pertubuhan Pelindung Khazanah Alam (PEKA) are calling on the Selangor Forestry Department to enforce the stay order granted by the Shah Alam High Court for the protection of the Bukit Cherakah Forest Reserve.
In a statement, they say that following the stay order granted on Aug 11, the degazetted 406ha land in Section U10, Shah Alam is now reverted as part of forest reserve.
ALSO READ: ‘Public inquiry still required for Bukit Cherakah forest reserve excision’
"The interim injunction given by the court applies to all parties, and all work at this location must immediately cease.
"The Selangor Forestry Department must immediately enforce this interim injunction, ensuring that exposed slopes are protected from the elements."
Bukit Cherakah was constituted as a forest reserve in 1909. The forest continues to be important for flora and fauna, hiking communities and as a protective buffer against global warming and climate change.
ALSO READ: Group wants Selangor MB to revoke Bukit Cherakah forest excision
SACFS and PEKA also want the state forestry department to issue immediate stop-work orders on all activities that threaten the integrity of the forest, which included land-clearing works carried out by developers and its contractors in parts of the forest reserve.
"We also call on all banks and financial institutions to stop issuing loans for any business causing deforestation as this is important to be in line with Bank Negara’s commitments to stop funding unsustainable projects.
"Even though this is a small victory, we believe the harder part will be getting a permanent injunction and making sure all parties follow the court order.
"We are working with other environmental Civil Society Organisations and concerned citizens to unite our voices to save Bukit Cherakah Forest Reserve."
