THE DROUGHT in Langkawi has caused water disruptions on the resort island and is a reminder that the authorities can no longer ignore its rainforests and mangrove swamps, which should now be regarded as treasure troves.
Naturalist Irshad Mubarak said the rainforest and mangroves represent huge water catchment areas for the island and can be an alternative source since supply from state water concessionaire Syarikat Air Darul Aman Sdn Bhd is often interrupted.
"The unusual and prolonged dry weather is not only confined to Langkawi but other states in the country.
"If the catchment areas in Perlis or Kedah mainland are affected, surely, they will be unable to supply Langkawi with water," Irshad told The Vibes.
Irshad said that even after construction of the proposed submarine pipeline from Perlis to Langkawi, it would be illogical to pump from locations which also do not have water in the first place.
He said Langkawi must look at alternatives, such as extracting water from rainforests and mangroves.
To ensure this happens, the authorities must no longer allow sand mining or logging anywhere on the island, including on Gunung Raya, its highest peak
Irshad said the Langkawi Development Authority must undertake serious conservation and preservation initiatives to protect the fragile ecology, from the rainforests to the mountains.
Langkawi is part of the international chain of Unesco Global Geo Parks, meaning sustainability must be advocated and practised, said Irshad, adding that local authorities must step up their enforcement to prevent illegal activities from mushrooming under the thick forest cover.
Oli Khalid, who runs the Red Tomato restaurant in Cenang, said a signature campaign to save Gunung Raya has been revived online.
"It is making its rounds again and is a firm reminder to protect Mother Nature. Langkawi is blessed with strong ecology credentials but it is important to sustain this despite pressure from tourism."
Oli said the geo-park status drives the point about the need to conserve the island, from better waste management to curbing marine pollution.
The mountain is home to a diverse ecosystem with wildlife such as great hornbills, black giant squirrels and island flying foxes.
It is 220 million years old and composed mainly of granite.
It is a part of Southeast Asia’s first global geo-park, chosen because of its geological importance to the region and conservation of nature.
Former Langkawi Malaysian Nature Society chairman Eric R. Sinnaya said greater efforts must be made to showcase the conservation and preservation practices to tourists. – The Vibes, April 11, 2024.
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