KUALA LUMPUR − Energy and Natural Resources Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan has made it clear of the ministry’s stance against the degazettement of the Kuala Langat North Forest Reserve (KLNFR).
He said that the federal government remains committed, ensuring at least 50% of the nation’s land is covered by forest.
“Preserving our forests is important, given its role in providing an ecosystem that contributes to society.
“In terms of policy, the Energy and Natural Resources Ministry has stated its stance, which disagrees with the degazettement of KLNFR,” Takiyuddin said in a statement today.
It was further mentioned that the ministry, along with its departments and agencies, has presented official objections to the Selangor government since last year.
The concern over the degazettement by the ministry is based upon the 2019 data, which shows that Selangor’s forests only occupy 31.74% of the land.
As for the 579.64ha of forests pledged to be replaced at Sg Panjang, Broga and Ampang Pecah respectively, Takiyuddin said the ministry supports the preservation of forest reserves.
“The Selangor government should ensure that the degazetted forest is developed responsibly and take into account the sustainability and sufficient buffer zones, as well as in compliance with the Environment Impact Assessment.
“This is to ensure that the implementation of development does not disturb forest areas and the ecosystems located nearby,” Takiyuddin said.
On Monday, state exco Hee Loy Sian had informed the state assembly that 50% of the KLNFR has already been degazetted since May.
However, in view of the objections to the proposal, only 536ha from the 991ha forest were degazetted, he said, adding that the affected areas will be compensated by the gazettement of land in three other areas. − The Vibes, September 2, 2021
