Kota Kinabalu: The Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-Pakatan Harapan (PH) Plus government and involved parties are urged to reconsider the approval of the proposed resort development at Tawau Hills Park.
Warisan Vice President cum Tanjung Aru Assemblyman Datuk Junz Wong said the Government should prioritise sustainable development and genuine community benefits rather than short-term economic gains.
“Warisan firmly opposes this project as it is too risky and potentially catastrophic for the environment and local communities,” he said.
He also voiced concerns about the impact on Tawau Hills Park, which serves as a critical freshwater source for Tawau, Semporna and Kunak.
He criticised the lack of local consultations and the potential environmental consequences, while also demanding answers to several pressing questions.
“Local park rangers, tour operators and conservation NGOs such as Wildcru and 1StopBorneo Wildlife have not been consulted,” he said.
He said the oversight was a significant concern as these groups have invaluable insights and experience in the area.
“Why was there no collaboration with local tourism service providers like KOKTAS, who are well-versed in the region’s needs?” he questioned.
Wong demanded transparency about Sabah Parks’ support for the project, seeking details of any endorsements and justifications.
“Is this development even included in the Sabah Parks Master Plan or the designated tourism zoning areas?” he inquired.
Wong also expressed concerns over potential water pollution and inadequate sewage management, posing a threat to nearly half a million Sabahans.
“What are the exact mitigation plans to prevent this ecological and public health hazard?” he asked.
Referring to a previously failed “white elephant” geothermal project that caused extensive environmental damage and ultimately was abandoned, Wong questioned the likelihood of a similar fate for this project proposal.
“How can we trust that this plan will not end like the geothermal project, as another failed venture leaving behind only destruction?” he said.
Wong also raised alarms about the environmental implications of constructing 30 chalets and additional roads, potentially causing damage to the primary rainforest.
“Has a thorough and transparent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) been conducted, and why local stakeholders have not been involved in the process?” he said.
