Across Sarawak, indigenous leaders are asserting their right to partake in every phase of planning for the state’s proposed new hydropower projects. Following the government’s announcement to advance dams on rivers like Baleh and Baram, representatives from Kayan, Kenyah, Penan and other communities issued a united declaration calling for authentic consultation and a formal role at the negotiating table.

They point to past mega-dams such as Bakun and Murum as proof that decisions made without their involvement result in forced relocations, the obliteration of ancestral territories, the loss of traditional livelihoods, and irreversible ecological harm. They note that thousands were displaced under earlier schemes, often without adequate compensation or viable alternatives for agriculture, fishing and forest gathering.

Emphasising their demand for free, prior and informed consent, the communities seek:
• Enshrined assurances that no project proceeds without their approval
• Independent social and environmental impact assessments
• Fair benefit-sharing frameworks
• Consideration of smaller-scale or off-grid renewable alternatives (solar, micro-hydro) as less invasive solutions

“Our rivers, forests and culture are interwoven,” stated a spokesperson for an affected village. “Any plan to dam these waterways endangers not just our homes but the ecosystem we rely on.” Environmental organisations have also cautioned that flooding vast swathes of rainforest will speed up biodiversity decline and release substantial greenhouse gases from decaying vegetation.

The Sarawak government maintains that expanding hydropower is essential to satisfy rising local electricity demand and to potentially export clean energy to neighbouring areas. Yet indigenous advocates argue that a uniform, top-down model disregards their human rights and long-term welfare. They are preparing legal challenges and targeted protests unless formal dialogue and decision-making mechanisms are established.

With Sarawak’s energy strategy still under review, these communities insist their voices must not be sidelined again. They demand that any future dams move forward only with their full participation—shifting from a historically top-down process to one founded on respect, transparency and shared stewardship of Sarawak’s rivers.

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Note: This article was retrieved automatically from reputable news sources. Information is provided for general reference only. Always confirm project specifics, pricing and investment decisions with licensed agents or official developers.