MIRI: All state local authorities have been instructed to ensure trees planted in urban areas in Sarawak are of durable species.
Assistant State Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh made the call following incidents of trees being uprooted by strong winds and heavy rain.
The incidents occurred as the planted trees were vulnerable to strong winds, he added.
“ I want all local authorities to ensure trees planted in future are resilient to natural disasters such as strong winds.
“I hope there will be no more of falling branches or trees uprooted during downpour,” Len said after opening the “Bring Back the Rainforest” at the Piasau Camp near here recently.
He acknowledged that there were local authorities which had planted trees that could stand any weather even during the current wet spell.
“If you are unaware of the typeof tree, please check and get advice from the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC).
“The SFC can recommend the most suitable trees that can weather strong winds and downpours,” said Len.
He said initiatives to establish natural reserves in Kuching, Sibu and Miri had been implemented.
“We have established natural reserves in Stutong, Kuching, Bukit Lima (Sibu) and Piasau (Miri). This will not only create green lungs, but also attract the public to rest and unwind,” said Len.
