Datuk Dennis Ngau (GPS-Telang Usan) has countered claims made by Violet Yong’s (DAP-Pending) regarding the proposed Sungai Tutoh Cascading Dam project.
He asserted that locals indeed support the government’s exploration of the dam’s implementation.
“Yong stated the government should heed local protests and signatures. I’m unsure if 1,000 locals truly signed. But if that’s the standard, local representatives in Baram could easily gather 40,000 signatures in support,” Dennis said when debating on the Natural Resources and Environment Bill, 2024, in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (Nov 12).
He also dismissed Yong’s claim of a lack of local engagement.
“The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), and relevant authorities have engaged with village representatives, community leaders, and even NGOs opposing the government and political parties, including myself and Datuk Gerawat Gala. Yet, they remained silent during these discussions.
“Engagements were held with community leaders and our community. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s statement that the local community greenlit the Sungai Tutoh Cascading Dam project is accurate, based on facts and community input
“We wouldn’t dare say such things without statements or letters from the community, including those in Telang Usan, who see this development as a pathway to progress for our area,” he added.
