KOTA KINABALU: Gundohing Simon Malubi, Chairman of the Sabah River Pollution Awareness Campaign, has voiced strong backing for the decisive measures taken by Sabah’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry, Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, in response to pollution linked to a biogas system in Kampung Kauluan, Tamparuli.
He described the minister’s on-site visits, ongoing monitoring, and clear warnings to the farm operators as necessary and well-directed actions to safeguard public interest, water supplies, and the integrity of Sabah’s agricultural sector.
“We stand firmly behind YB Datuk Jamawi Jaafar’s firm stance, which places village safety and community welfare first.
“River pollution is a serious matter—it directly affects public health, water security, and the sustainability of Sabah’s food production,” he said in a statement today.
Gundohing Simon emphasised that while biogas technology is intended to reduce environmental impact and improve waste management, poor oversight can lead to significant harm to both ecosystems and nearby residents.
“We are not opposed to growth in the livestock industry, which plays a vital role in the economy and food availability,” he noted.
“However, such development must be responsibly managed and strictly comply with environmental regulations.”
He also endorsed proposals for routine inspections, audits of biogas operations, and continuous water quality assessments to prevent future contamination.
Additionally, he urged the companies involved to strengthen their corporate social responsibility toward affected communities.
“Access to clean and safe water is a fundamental right for all Sabahans,” he said. “Rivers are more than just waterways—they are lifelines for people, farming, and nature and must be protected collectively,” he added.
