Malaysia: The state government of Sabah has dismissed concerns over illegal logging, investor withdrawal and environmental risks related to the US$277m Tongod cement plant project.
Masiung Banah of the Sabah State Legislative Assembly said "There is no logging taking place. The quarry spans 200 acres [80.9 hectares], not thousands as claimed. The project has undergone thorough environmental assessments, including an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), to ensure compliance with regulations."
Masiung, also chair of Borneo Cement, said that the project is proceeding as planned and that site clearing had already begun, following the approval of the EIA, according to the Daily Express newspaper. He added that the 5000t/day plant in Kampung Kayawoi will address Sabah’s cement shortage, reduce prices through local sourcing and create up to 1000 jobs for local people, as well as improving roads, electricity and water supply in the region. The Sabah Energy Commission has reportedly agreed to supply 40% of the plant’s required electricity and a 26km access road will be built to transport materials.
