KUCHING: The Sarawak government has not made a final decision on the proposed construction of the Trusan and Baram dams, the Sarawak Legislative Assembly heard on Monday (Nov 27).
State Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said Sarawak Energy Bhd was currently carrying out a feasibility study on developing the Trusan hydroelectric project and looking into cascading dams.
He said all stakeholders, including local representatives, leaders and communities in the area, would be engaged in the process.
"We have yet to make any decision to proceed with the Trusan or Baram dams at this stage," he said when winding up matters related to his ministry.
Last Wednesday (Nov 22), Baru Bian (PSB-Ba'Kelalan) asked for an update on the status of both dams following reports that the state government intended to build them.
"The people affected do not want dams to be built after learning of the bad experiences of villagers in the Batang Ai, Bakun and Murum areas whose ancestral homes and way of life were lost with the flooding of their villages," Baru said when debating the 2024 state budget.
Julaihi also said the passing of the Electricity (Amendment) Bill last Tuesday (Nov 21) opened up opportunities for the state to develop its hydropower potential through cascading dams.
He said cascading dams were more sustainable, with minimal environmental and social impact, as they did not require a large reservoir or inundate large areas but relied on river flow.
In addition, he said the Bill provided opportunities for the private and public sectors and local communities to participate through equity in the development of hydropower with Sarawak Energy, if the local community wanted the project to be developed in their area.
"Local participation in developing the cascading dams depends on their willingness without force.
"Nevertheless, Sarawak Energy will continue to take the lead to ensure grid stability, safety and security," Julaihi said.
He added that Sarawak Energy adopted international hydropower sustainability standards in carrying out its projects, including engaging communities and local leaders early in project implementation.
"Hopefully, there will be no interference by outsiders influencing the local community in the area," he said.
