Sabah govt monitoring RM2b silica mining project, says environment dept director

KOTA KINABALU, June 15 — The state’s environmental authorities are monitoring the site of a silica mining project in northern Sabah, said Environmental Protection Department director Vitalis Moduying.

Amidst concerns that the project could impact negatively the pristine coastal waters of nearby villages and the Tun Mustapha Marine Park, Moduying said that the department currently had its eyes on the construction of the processing plant.

“They have submitted four Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports — two for the processing plant at the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and two for the Sikuati, Kudat mining site.

“So far, the developers have complied with all regulatory requirements,” he said during a press conference here today.

He said that his department would ensure all EIA guidelines are implemented and mitigation measures addressed.

Residents from five villages in Sikuati, Kudat have protested against the RM2 billion silica mining project by China-owned Kibing Group.

Locals in the area who rely on the sea for their livelihood fear the project could destroy the pristine coastal ecosystem and deprive them of an income.

Residents from Kampung Bangau, Andab Bangau, Andab Darat, Kimihang and Longgom Kecil urged the Sabah government to intervene and put a stop to the project.

However, last month, Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Ginger Phoong said all environmental concerns raised by the villagers were addressed in the EIA study.

Earlier, WWF-Malaysia conservation director Dr Henry Chan said that the state must strike a balance between economic development and environmental conservation.

“Rapid development can come at a cost, as it can negatively impact the state’s natural environment and people’s lives,” he said.

Dr Chan said that implementing the EIA process effectively is a vital first step, and not only after the project has been approved.

“There is a need for feasibility studies on the environment before approving any development project, not conducting an EIA after project approval,” he said.