KOTA KINABALU: The construction of a road for a herbal plantation project at a vital water catchment area in the foothills of Mount Kinabalu in Ranau district is raising concerns over its environmental impact.
If steps are not taken to protect the area, it could affect the water source for up to 13 villages, says Sabah STAR.
The party's Ranau parliamentary coordinator Anuar Ghani said authorities must take immediate steps to safeguard the Bukit Hampuan Forest Reserve in Ranau as villagers are concerned that road construction and land clearing could threaten vital water sources and the environment.
He said the project at Mile 4 of the Mamut road (near the disused Mamut copper mine) was being developed after 159ha were excised from the 1,300ha Bukit Hampuan Class I Forest Reserve for the proposed plantation project.
However, he said no clear explanation has been given to the local community to address concerns over adverse effects for gravity water supply systems to Kampung Lukapon, Kampung Lasing and Kampung Kilimu, among other villagers.
"They fear that the project could affect their water security. We cannot wait until disaster strikes before taking action.
"Protection and enforcement must be carried out immediately to preserve Bukit Hampuan for the people of Ranau," Anuar said.
He said the forest reserve provides direct supply to villages while water from Sungai Mansahaban is used to irrigate padi fields across Mukim Tanah Rata.
The river also supports fish farming and eco‑tourism.
"Disturbance on steep slopes could trigger erosion, landslides and sudden mud floods, especially in Kg Kilimu," Anuar said, adding that residents are concerned that Bukit Hampuan’s flora and fauna could also be threatened by the development.
He said the 13 villages potentially at risk include Kilimu, Lasing, Lukapon, Kesiladan, Sinarut Baru, Tagudon Baru, Libang, Bahab, Kokob, Tudangan, Sinarut Lama, Marakau and Giman.
Anuar urged the authorities to carry out immediate inspection of the roadworks and land clearing and give priority to the local community's welfare as well as environmental protection.
