Deeper commitment to environmental preservation crucial for future generations, says deputy minister

KUCHING (Sept 30): Sarawakians should foster a deeper commitment to environmental preservation so as to ensure the well-being and sustainability of the environment for future generations, said Datuk Martin Ben.

The Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development highlighted that the theme for this year’s National Environment Day, ‘Alam Sekitar Tanggungjawab Bersama’ (The Environment is a Shared Responsibility), seeks to cultivate a collective spirit of environmental stewardship within the community.

“The theme reminds us that the environment is not the possession of a select few or certain individuals, but rather a responsibility that belongs to all of us.

“Therefore, each of us plays an important role in preserving and protecting this precious gift of nature,” said the Kedup assemblyman.

He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the ‘Peatland Fires Prevention and Monitoring Community’ programme in Kampung Terbat Leban, Serian on Saturday.

The programme was held in connection with National Environment Day.

Additionally, Martin highlighted the effects of environmental pollution, which among the reasons is caused by open burning, as well as irresponsible waste disposal leading to water pollution.

Thus, he called upon the community to unite to safeguard the environment so as to ensure its sustainability.

Also present was Sarawak Environment Department director John Rampai.