PBS calls for construction of Papar dam to address Sabah water woes

 

PBS vice president Datuk Johnny Mositun (7th, right) and party members jointly cutting the anniversary cake. - Pic courtesy of PBS.

PAPAR: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) expressed concern over the growing lack of clean water supply in Sabah.

Its vice president Datuk Johnny Mositun stressed the need for a long-term solution and called for support in constructing the Papar dam.

"Without a steady supply of clean water, development in the district and state would be hampered," he said during PBS Limbahau division annual general meeting (AGM) held at a community hall.

He said the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) and Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) were conducting the necessary social and environmental impact assessments.

He highlighted the critical problem in the state, with many water intake points at rivers declared as polluted and no longer able to be used as a source of water.

With many developments planned for Papar and the surrounding areas, including the airport in Kimanis and mega projects proposed for Kinarut, Mositun lamented that without a steady water supply, implementation of these plans and attracting investors would be difficult.

Mositun emphasised the Papar dam should be constructed, without detrimental to the environment or the social impact of the people at the location.

"Community leaders must also explain the need for the dam clearly to the people and make them understand that it could resolve the clean water supply problem," said Mositun.

Mositun also expressed his disappointment over the delay in the appointment of village security and development committee (JKKK) in Limbahau despite the recommended name list has been submitted to the Papar district officer and the Rural Development Ministry.

Without the JKKK, he said development in the villages could not be implemented, as the relevant departments have no one to liaise with.

On the party front, Mositun who is the Limbahau chief reminded its members to continue its struggles and champion the rights of Sabahans and the state.

He said the state was progressing well under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, and they will continue to support him, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), and the unity government.

"PBS was among the first parties to champion for the state and its people under GRS, and we must continue what we started for the sake of the state and people," he urged.

PBS executive secretary Masilus Roman, PBS supreme council member John Masabal, and representatives from the party's youth and women wings were also present at the AGM. - NST