LONG LAMA – More than 400 residents gathered at SJKC Kee Tee Hall to participate in the River Cleanliness and Safety Awareness Program organised by the Sarawak Rivers Authority (LSS), reinforcing the importance of preserving river ecosystems and safe practices.
The event, officiated by Sarawak Deputy Minister of Transport (Rivers and Marine) Dato Henry Harry Jinep, marked a continued effort by the government to educate the public on river safety and environmental stewardship.
“Since 2024, the Sarawak Rivers Board has carried out 29 river safety-related programmes involving more than 5,700 participants across the state. This reflects the government’s serious commitment to ensuring the safety and awareness of river users,” he said during his speech.
Throughout the programme, multiple agencies delivered talks addressing key concerns such as water transport safety, river cleanliness, solid waste disposal, and human-crocodile conflict. Participating agencies included the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), Sarawak Agriculture Department, and Marudi District Council (MDM).
As part of the biodiversity conservation effort, over 10,000 fish fry were released into the Baram River to support sustainable fishery resources.
To further enhance river safety among residents, Dato Henry presented 60 life jackets to the local community. The gesture was aimed at promoting safe river usage, especially in rural areas where river transport remains a daily necessity.
Also in attendance were Baram Member of Parliament Dato Anyi Ngau, Telang Usan Assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, Sarawak Rivers Board Controller Lt. Col (Rtd) Ding Tiew Wong, and local community and tribal leaders.
The programme is expected to strengthen public awareness and cooperation in preserving Sarawak’s rivers, recognising them as critical assets to both the environment and the rural economy.
