KeTSA supports Pahang's efforts, commitment to preserve Tasik Chini

KUALA LUMPUR: The Energy and Natural Resources Ministry (KeTSA) said it will always support the efforts and commitment of the Pahang government in preserving Tasik Chini, including the expansion of the Chini Forest Reserve from 4,600ha to 6,000 or up to 7,000ha.

Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the ministry would also emphasize the importance of preserving the sustainability of Tasik Chini to retain its biosphere reserve status granted by UNESCO.

"Policies and directions have been set to ensure the management and development of natural resources is implemented responsibly and sustainably.

"In line with this regulatory function, KeTSA will not approve any mining activity in the conservation areas such as the permanent forest reserve, protected areas as well as specially gazetted areas including water catchment or environmentally sensitive areas.

"For this purpose, the Department of Mineral and Geoscience (JMG) will not issue any letter of approval for the Operational Mining Scheme for applications in these areas," he said in a statement today

Shamsul Anuar said approvals for other areas were subject to the assessment and technical process.

"As the first biosphere reserve site in Malaysia, the management of Tasik Chini is a yardstick for the management of all natural treasures in the country," he said.

-- BERNAMA