KOTA KINABALU – The challenge following the lifting of lockdowns, is to reignite economic activity without causing environmental damage, according to Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
“There is no doubt that the environmental quality has improved significantly since the movement control order was implemented – which has seen Malaysians enjoying a healthier environment, including cleaner air.
“This shows humans are disrupting nature’s balance and harmony, and that nature has the ability to heal. The challenge now is to reignite economic activity, while avoiding further environmental damage.
“In view of this, synergies between federal and state agencies should be harnessed through comprehensive enforcement actions to keep the momentum going in tackling and resolving environmental pollution problems,” said Joniston during the virtual launching of the state-level National Environment Day.
He said Sabah is on the right track to manage its environment sustainably via the practice of good governance, powerful legal instruments, comprehensive enforcement, ongoing education, and awareness.
Joniston said his ministry continues to collaborate with local councils (PBTs) through household e-waste collection competitions.
They comprise 11 selected PBTs in Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Tawau, Beaufort, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Kudat, Sipitang, Beluran, Keningau, and Papar.
“As a result of this programme, we are seeing more and more household e-waste collection centres being created.
“This, in turn, makes it easier for the public to dispose of electrical and electronic waste from their households – thus helping to preserve the environment at the community level in urban and rural areas,” he said.
Also present at the event were the ministry’s permanent secretary Datuk Mohd Yusrie Abdullah, Sabah Environment Department director Amirul Aripin, Sabah Environmental Protection Department director Vitalis J. Moduying, and Sabah and Labuan Petronas chief Siti Ayu Haniza Abdul Wahab. – The Vibes, November 11, 2021
