Sarawak's Controversial Cascading Dam Project Divides Communities
The Sarawak government has identified three river sites for cascading dam construction: Sungai Gaat in Kapit, Sungai Tutoh in Baram, and Sungai Belaga in Belaga. The project, aimed at addressing environmental concerns and energy needs, has sparked debate among local communities and NGOs.
Initially requested by the Penan community in Belaga, the proposed dam project there has faced opposition from local NGOs like the Sarawak Indigenous Peoples’ Alliance (SIPA) and the International Rivers Network. They have been raising awareness about potential environmental and social impacts, encouraging communities to reject the project.
Cascading dams are seen as a solution to control the growing crocodile population in Sarawak by regulating their reproduction. The Sarawak government has assured that it will not proceed with the project if the local community does not want it. The government also rules out any coercion, prioritising the consent of affected communities.
The project will be developed by private companies, with electricity grid connections provided by Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB). The government has committed to considering the views and consent of the local community before implementing the project.
The Sarawak government's cascading dam project, while aimed at addressing environmental concerns and energy needs, faces opposition from local NGOs. The government has assured that it will respect the wishes of the local community and will not proceed with the project if they disagree. The project, if approved, will be developed by private companies with grid connections provided by SEB.
