IPOH: Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) has asked the Perak Forestry Department to explain why logging licences were approved at compartments 58 and 59 of the Segari Melintang Forest Reserve in Manjung.
SAM field officer Meor Razak Meor Abdul Rahman said the 50ha of land had been classified as a protection forest – which mitigates or prevents impacts of natural hazards such as landslides and flooding – according to the Perak State Forest Management Plan Mid-Term Review 2016-2025.
He said this was in line with Section 10 (1) (b) of the National Forestry Act (Adoption) Enactment 1985.
“So what is the department's justification for approving logging activities in the Permanent Forest Reserve area?” he said in a statement on Thursday (June 27).
He said a signboard had been put up in the area bearing the name of the contractor and the name of the company that holds the logging licences.
Meor Razak said residents living near the forest reserve did not agree with the approval of logging activities at both compartments and have raised their concerns.
He said they are worried about the impact on the ecosystem, especially in the coastal area of Teluk Senangin, a resort beach.
“SAM hopes the department will be able to provide feedback on the matter,” he added.
The Star has reached out to the department for comment.
