KOTA KINABALU: Likas Assemblyman Tham Yun Fook urged the authorities to ensure a comprehensive sewerage and wastewater treatment system is included in the proposed revitalisation of the Likas Waterfront to prevent pollution of Likas Bay.
He nevertheless welcomed the collaboration between Sedco, Sedcovest Holdings Sdn Bhd and City Hall (DBKK) to revitalise the waterfront, including upgrading Anjung Selera and Anjung Perdana, ahead of Visit Sabah Year 2027.
Tham said the initiative was in line with his earlier call in the State Legislative Assembly for the Government to develop more tourism products and attractions in the Likas area to boost tourism and create greater economic opportunities for local communities.
“Likas has a strategic location, beautiful bay views and good public amenities. If properly planned, this project can become another key attraction in Kota Kinabalu while benefiting local traders and small and medium enterprises,” he said in a statement, Saturday.
However, he stressed that the development must be accompanied by adequate sewerage and wastewater treatment facilities to prevent pollution of Likas Bay.
“We do not want a project that looks attractive on the surface but ends up polluting the sea and harming the environment. Development, tourism and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand,” he said.
Tham also urged the relevant authorities to engage local residents and business operators and to disclose detailed implementation plans to ensure transparency and long-term benefits for the public.
“I support this development initiative, but at the same time I want to ensure that the Likas Waterfront is developed in a sustainable manner for the benefit of the people and future generations,” he added.
