BY GOH PEI PEI & JACINTHA JOLENE
KUCHING: The Sarawak government is in the process of gazetting 100 acres of land in Bukit Siol, Petra Jaya, as a nature reserve to keep the city green and liveable.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said it will become a place where people can jog, exercise and enjoy fresh air; similar to the Samajaya Nature Reserve in Stutong Forest Park.
“We have identified several locations under the jurisdiction of Kuching North City Hall (DBKU), including the state library’s surrounding areas and boulevard (the street lined with trees) at Bukit Siol, which will be gazetted as a nature reserve,” he said.
Once it is officially gazetted, no development will be allowed in the area, thus providing a clean and safe environment for various recreation activities.
“Even the development in the surrounding areas (near the nature reserve) will be closely monitored where there will be some restrictions for constructions of tall buildings,” he told the reporters after officiating at Kuching City’s 35th anniversary celebration at the Kuching Waterfront here today.
“If we have Samajaya Nature Reserve within Kuching South City Council (MBKS), then we will have Bukit Siol Nature Reserve within DBKU; two green sanctuaries in the midst of the city,” he added.
Abang Johari said this was also part of the state government’s conservations efforts, to ensure people living in the city, continue to be able to enjoy green spaces.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) and Sarawak Forestry Department will work together in planting indigenous species trees in the areas, such as Belian and Nyatoh trees.
