SERIAN: A total of 125 Bucida Variegated trees were planted here in a joint initiative between Sarawak Energy and the Serian District Council.
The event, officiated by Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus, aimed to raise awareness about the significance of tree planting and its role in maintaining environmental balance amid ongoing climate change discussions.
John expressed that the programme’s primary objective is to educate and engage the community in understanding the importance of tree planting.
He emphasised that it is essential for climate stability as discussions on climate change continue to gain momentum.
“The tree planting effort aligns with Sarawak’s commitment to environmental sustainability, as outlined in the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) initiative.
“This initiative emphasises the importance of sustainable environmental balance and green technology adoption, aligning with the broader goals for the state,” he said to the media after completing the symbolic tree planting at the new lake of Taman Danu Serian on today (Oct 19).
Notable attendees at the event included representatives from Sarawak Energy were assistant general manager for Transmission Substation Projects, Project Delivery, Ts Albert Bong; and senior manager for Transmission Substation Projects, Khiew Ai Lin.
Also present were acting Serian Resident Abdul Khalid Manap, Serian District Council chairman Lim Hock Meng and Serian District Council secretary Tay Guan Huat.
In response to enquiries about the haze situation in Serian, John mentioned that the local authorities are proactive in monitoring and addressing the issue.
“They work closely with the Serian Divisional Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) to ensure that the public is well-informed about haze conditions.
“An API (Air Pollution Index) reading machine is stationed at the Serian police station to provide real-time updates on air quality.
“The authorities have also taken precautions by meeting through the Disaster Committee to ensure the safety and well-being of the community in these conditions.”
He asserted that they have established a continuous channel of communication to inform village leaders (KK) to refrain from such practices as open burning, ensuring the safety and environmental wellbeing of the area.