KOTA KINABALU: The decades and probably century-old raintrees at the Kasigui area in Penampang near here have been spared from being felled – at least for now.
The demolition of the five huge trees, locally known as Kasigui trees, was scheduled for April 2. However, it has been halted following protests from environmentalists and locals.
In a notice from the Penampang Municipal Council on March 31, it said that demolition works have been put on hold for reevaluation and a more thorough assessment.
This includes safety and technical aspects, it said, adding the council appreciates all feedback, cooperation and concern from the public regarding this issue.
Landscape architect and arborist Eric Yee is thankful that the council is willing to listen to public feedback and re-examine the matter.
"Now that the protests have served their purpose, it was time for all to work together with the Penampang Municipal Council to find a solution," he said.
Yee said all trees should be retained with proper mitigation and monitoring.
“There is a need to improve the growing conditions of these trees. Such as root space, soil structure around the trees or restrict compaction among other things,” he said.
Last week, the Penampang Municipal Council issued an announcement that the trees were to be chopped down on April 2.
Some trimming works had started over the weekend but the plans were scrapped following public outcry, with many sharing how the trees served as shade for traders and fishermen in the area over the past decades.
These trees have been in the area since the British colonial times.
