Engagement with the indigenous conducted for the construction of reservoir in Kelantan

Kuala Lumpur, 19 April 2021 – An engagement session, as recommended by the Malaysian Human Rights Suruhanjaya (Suhakam), was conducted to gauge the indigenous people insights about the design of a reservoir project in Nenggiri, Caves Weasel, Kelantan. The engagement was also aimed at giving information regarding the project, as well as its benefits to the communities.

The session was attended by Suhakam members; local community leaders; government officials; and relevant companies’ representatives, including TNB Power Generation Sdn Bhd. The local community was given the opportunity to raise questions and concerns.

The reservoir construction project, which has been approved by the Kingdom of Kelantan, is expected to give benefits to the local people, especially the indigenous communities, by providing access to clean water supplies and irrigation. Additionally, the reservoir is expected to mitigate the impact from the floods that often hit Kelantan.

The local leader of the indigenous people organisation (JPKKOA), Ajeh Baharom, hopes that the implementation of the project will be accelerated because the people in three indigenous settlements have waited eight years for it to be realised.

Meanwhile, the Director of TNB Power Generation Sdn Bhd, Dato’ Nor Azman Mufti, stated that TNB is always open to engagement and dialogue sessions to listen to all relevant parties in all development projects.

He said, “As a company with strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) values, TNB always ensures that all terms and regulations are met. TNB is also committed to ensure that indigenous people interests and voices are heard. Their perspective is important so that the construction of the project is fully contextual and socially responsible.”

– Construction+ Online

Source: TNB