KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s rivers are facing a critical state of pollution, with current conditions deemed moderate but deteriorating.

With this in mind, during a workshop on river management in Sabah, experts and local officials shared their concerns and highlighted the urgent need for new systems and regulations to address the issue.

Organised by the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry through the Environment Protection Department (EPD), the workshop aims at developing a clear and comprehensive roadmap for managing rivers in Sabah.

“This includes efforts to protect water quality and ensure the sustainability of our river ecosystems,” said Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, adding that the workshop is particularly timely, coinciding with World Rivers Day, celebrated globally in September.

She noted that the primary issue is the pollution affecting Sabah’s rivers, which is attributed to both man-made activities and natural factors such as weather changes.

Liew added that unchecked pollution has resulted in rivers becoming shallow due to siltation and erosion, further worsening the problem, emphasising the importance of public awareness and responsibility.

“The public must understand that rivers support all forms of life, including agriculture, aquaculture, wildlife, and humans. A polluted river impacts everyone,” she said.

Liew called for a collective effort to prevent littering and promote river conservation. 

When asked about the impact of timber logging on river pollution, she acknowledged the need for clear guidelines to mitigate environmental impacts.

“We need to present the effects of timber logging and ensure that proper guidelines are in place to protect our rivers,” she said.

The workshop is expected to compile recommendations and formulate strategies to address river pollution.

Liew expressed confidence that effective strategies would be developed, stating: “With your active participation, I am confident that effective strategies will be developed to address the existing challenges. I believe this workshop will have a positive impact on river management in Sabah, and recommendations made will be presented to the relevant authorities for further action.”

She believes that the outcomes of the workshop increase public awareness and encourage widespread participation in conservation efforts.

“The situation is dire, and immediate action is required. We must work together to implement effective measures and ensure that our rivers are preserved for future generations,” Liew said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/02/sabahs-rivers-face-critical-pollution-crisis