THE time has come for the federal, state and local levels of government to address climate change, deforestation and environmental destruction urgently.
I am concerned that the relevant authorities are not aware of or seem concerned about tackling the climate change crisis in Malaysia. It is as if their mindset is "This is not important and it won't affect me".
The first step would be for the local authorities in the respective states to identify the areas which need protection, which should then be followed up with corrective action.
Among the glaring things that stand out are the barren patches void of vegetation and trees on hills and mountains.
Whenever someone travels on the Lekas Highway (from Semenyih), one can see the clearing of the mountain from the highway. Each time I pass the area, there is more clearing of trees and loss of habitat.
So, is this mountain allowed for land clearing and is it legal? Are the authorities who are supposed to look into environmental destruction aware of this or are they being paid to look the other way?
Actually, the district officer should be aware of what is going on as it is happening in his area. The wakil rakyat should also be aware as it is not a small thing or something that is hidden away from public view.
The menteri besar, if he is aware or concerned, should take note and undertake a surprise check of the district, just like what the Johor MB is doing.
One must know that things and situations cannot be left as it is. If change is not forthcoming then it is up to the MB to set things right.
The other thing is enforcement followed by periodic supervision of areas that are in need of crucial protection. If the area is too large or inaccessible, then drones can be deployed to cover these areas.
Supervision should not be conducted at a specific time and day but should be done periodically at any time of the day or night.
If the authorities (the district officer and Department of Environment officers) are not dealing with climate change seriously or have too many other matters to deal with, then a separate department should be formed to address this issue.
In this regard, should there be an ombudsman to prod local government officials into action?
Christopher Amirtharaj
Semenyih, Selangor