THE Pahang government has been reminded to monitor investments coming into the state so as to not pollute the environment.
Regent of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Al-Sultan Abdullah said there must be a balance between the development and supporting the net-zero carbon emissions when implementing projects in the state.
I do not want ‘menang bersorak, kampung tergadai’ (don’t risk losing everything for something that is not worth it) and furthermore, Pahang is a state rich with natural resources and has valuable natural treasure,” the Regent said in his royal address at the opening of the 15th state legislative assembly sitting at Wisma Sri Pahang today (May 8).
The environment must never be sidelined in the pursuit to develop the country and state, he added.
In applauding the state government’s achievement in securing seven international investment projects from Singapore, China, Thailand and South Korea totalling RM11 bil, the Regent further advised for the investments to be thoroughly monitored.
“I did not want the investments to be simply ‘based on the numbers’ but let people also benefit from the abundance of jobs that will be created. Most importantly, all the investments must not pollute the environment in the state,” the Regent remarked.
Tengku Hassanal cautioned that the natural resources in the state might not be sustained if there is no well-coordinated management and planning.
“We have to develop a strategy to switch from the current traditional economy resources such as mineral, soil and timber to other alternative economy resources,” he noted.
“If we remain united and focus, Pahang will not only be able to become a major contributor to the country’s economy but also contribute to the country’s net-zero emission.
“Therefore, I want my government to practise sustainable development based on the concept of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) in every project to guarantee the welfare and prosperity of the people.”
The Regent went on to note that he has been regularly receiving reports involving enforcement activities on trespassing, theft involving natural resources and illegal exploration of forest reserves in the state.
“I find our enforcement is still at a weak level and there is a lot that has to be improved. Yes, Pahang is huge but that should not be used as a reason for us not to act aggressively towards those who steal the natural resources in Pahang,” he asserted.
“There is no choice but to further intensify the enforcement activities and I want all the enforcement agencies to be brave and bold by carrying out their duties professionally, regardless of the background of the offender.
“My government has to find a way to enhance the enforcement activities further and provide a suitable budget so they (the enforcement agencies) can perform their tasks diligently.” – May 8, 2023
Main pic credit: Bernama
