SEMATAN: The Talang Satang National Park now has a sustainable and reliable supply of electricity thanks to the collaborative efforts of Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC).
The steady flow of electricity, provided by solar panels is much-needed, especially since the islands – Talang-Talang Besar and Talang-Talang Kechil – are home to the sea turtle conservation programme.
Speaking during the handing over of SEB solar centralised system here yesterday, Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg said, “This is the result of a collaboration between SFC and SEB in providing 24-hour electricity in selected areas, particularly in our national parks.
“These islands are few of the areas whereby a number of conservation activities are being run.”
On the sea turtle conservation programme, Abang Johari said that there has been an increase in terms of the population of sea turtles landing in the area, especially female sea turtles.
“This means that our efforts to conserve the environment is working as sea turtles from the surrounding areas are coming here.
“This is very good for us as it also means our efforts will be recognised everywhere,” he said.
At the same time, the Chief Minister said that due to the solar energy now providing power on the island, there was an opportunity to boost both tourism and environmental conservation awareness in the area.
“If we want to promote tourism, we will be selective because we want to preserve the environment.
“If this island has electrical supply, then we can develop accommodation which is both comfortable and blends in with the environment.
“When the tourists arrive, SFC can then educate them on what they can and cannot do here.
“In the long run, this area can become an attractive area,” he said during a press conference after the event.
Meanwhile, a number of baby sea turtles were released to the sea on the occasion.
Also present during the event were Minister for Utilities, Datuk Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth, and Sports, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Assistant Minister for Rural Electricity, Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and Tanjung Datu State Assemblywoman, Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu.
