KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem deserves support from all Sarawakians for his effort and determination to curb illegal logging in the state, says Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) veteran Dato Peter Minos.
“Illegal logging means four things- loss of revenue to the government by the millions of ringgit, degradation of the environment, open defiance of the laws and bad name to Sarawak. So, we the ordinary folks should be fully behind our chief minister on his war against illegal logging because he is doing the right thing,” he said.
He pointed out that Sarawakians want loggers and people in that industry to respect the laws.
“This is to safeguard our precious environment and to treat our rural natives living in or near the forests with respect and dignity. We should not allow illegal loggers to do what they please at the expense of Sarawak’s interests and its people,” he said.
He also mentioned that Sarawakians do not need to be told what to do by foreign NGOs regarding illegal logging in the state.
He recalled reading an article in London in 1985 which bitterly attacked Sarawak and its leaders over the issue.
“Losing revenue is bad but worse is the bad image illegal loggers cause to Sarawak.
“We really hope and are confident that law-enforcers at relevant agencies know the dangers of illegal logging and they will do their part honestly and sincerely. In that way, they are supporting our chief minister in eradicating this silent scourge. It is some thing to be taken seriously for the sake of our beloved Sarawak,” said Minos.