KENINGAU: There are no logging or forest clearing activities in Ulu Sungai Bayayo, contrary to what was claimed in a viral video circulating on social media.
Bingkor Assemblyman Datuk Robert Tawik said the forest is within the jurisdiction of Sabah Parks and is regularly monitored by park staff.
“Any forest clearing or logging activities in the area are unlikely,” he said.
Robert, also State Assistant Minister of Public Works, added that he had been informed by the Keningau District Officer, the Keningau Forestry Department and Sabah Parks that no logging activities are taking place in Ulu Sungai Bayayo.
Furthermore, local community leaders from Kampung Bunga Raya and Kampung Banduan, near the forest, confirmed that there are no logging activities.
“The actual incident was a landslide in the forested area, which caused debris to flow into Ulu Sungai Bayayo, resulting in extreme river turbidity. That is what the local leaders have informed me,” Robert explained.
Asked about the origins of the viral video, Robert said he was unsure but did not rule out the possibility that it was intended to slander the Government.
Robert said this after accompanying Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan on a working visit to inspect riverbank erosion in Kampung Gasabon, Kampung Lingggawon and Kampung Minansut in the Bingkor area.