KUCHING: Sarawakians are reminded to conserve waterways in the state in an effort to protect the natural environment.
Assistant Minister of Utilities (Water Supply) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the state government would continue to provide support in organising river cleaning programmes throughout the state.
“Such programme is vital in raising the peoples’ awareness for river conservation.
“The community can then understand and inculcate positive behaviour by maintaining the cleanliness of the surrounding environment,” he said at the ‘Santuni Alam Sekitar’ programme in Kampung Gersik Esplanade here yesterday.
Recognising the significant role of waterways to serve as basic needs for waters, Dr Abdul Rahman said that the conservation of rivers could make the waterways an attraction to visitors.
“Our waterways are not only to provide water for the people, but it also helps to become one of the main platforms in generating the state’s economy.
“Making it as part of our tourism products, I believe that the initiative would improve the socio-economic status of the community with sustainable management of the natural environment.
“Therefore, the villagers must constantly be advised to not throw rubbish into the river,” he said.
He also noted the decreasing use of plastic straws.
“I am very proud to witness restaurants have ceased to provide plastic straws to diners. This proves the positive impact of hosting such programme,” he said.
Dr Abdul Rahman who is also Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs and DBKU) also highlighted the need for Village Security and Development Committees (JKKKs) in Sarawak to step up their actions in promoting a hygienic lifestyle.
JKKKs should organise more programmes to elevate public awareness in conserving rivers throughout Sarawak, he said.
