Stop the Destruction of Bakun Catchment Forests (LPF/0056) – Protect Biodiversity & Native


Stop the Destruction of Bakun Catchment Forests (LPF/0056) – Protect Biodiversity & Native
The Issue
Our Petition:
We, the undersigned, representing the Penan, Kayan, Lahanan, and Kenyah communities of the Bakun area, strongly oppose the Bamboo Plantation Project (LPF/0056) granted to Rich Venture Plantation Sdn Bhd covering 44,545 hectares in the Bakun Dam catchment.
Why We Object:
- Environmental Risks: Nearly 90% of the forest will be cleared, with 53% of runoff flowing directly into Bakun Reservoir, threatening water quality, fisheries, and national energy security.
- Loss of Endangered Species Habitat: This area is the last refuge for hornbills, gibbons, Great Argus pheasant, clouded leopards, and other Totally Protected species under the Wild Life Protection Ordinance 1998.
- Unsettled Native Customary Rights (NCR): Large areas of native lands were submerged during Bakun Dam construction without full compensation. Remaining upland lands should serve as replacement lands for native communities, not be given to outside companies.
- Violation of International Commitments: Malaysia is a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which requires biodiversity protection, sustainable use of resources, and respect for indigenous rights. LPF/0056 directly violates these commitments.
Our Demands:
- Immediate suspension of LPF/0056 license.
- Recognition of NCR/NTD rights, including replacement for uncompensated submerged lands.
- Establishment of permanent buffer zones around Bakun Reservoir to safeguard hydrology and wildlife.
- Transparent dialogue between government, communities, NGOs, and SUHAKAM.
- Support for sustainable alternatives such as eco-tourism, aquaculture, and community forestry
By signing this petition, you stand with us in defending Sarawak’s natural heritage, the safety of Bakun Dam, and the rights of indigenous communities.

146
The Issue
Our Petition:
We, the undersigned, representing the Penan, Kayan, Lahanan, and Kenyah communities of the Bakun area, strongly oppose the Bamboo Plantation Project (LPF/0056) granted to Rich Venture Plantation Sdn Bhd covering 44,545 hectares in the Bakun Dam catchment.
Why We Object:
- Environmental Risks: Nearly 90% of the forest will be cleared, with 53% of runoff flowing directly into Bakun Reservoir, threatening water quality, fisheries, and national energy security.
- Loss of Endangered Species Habitat: This area is the last refuge for hornbills, gibbons, Great Argus pheasant, clouded leopards, and other Totally Protected species under the Wild Life Protection Ordinance 1998.
- Unsettled Native Customary Rights (NCR): Large areas of native lands were submerged during Bakun Dam construction without full compensation. Remaining upland lands should serve as replacement lands for native communities, not be given to outside companies.
- Violation of International Commitments: Malaysia is a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which requires biodiversity protection, sustainable use of resources, and respect for indigenous rights. LPF/0056 directly violates these commitments.
Our Demands:
- Immediate suspension of LPF/0056 license.
- Recognition of NCR/NTD rights, including replacement for uncompensated submerged lands.
- Establishment of permanent buffer zones around Bakun Reservoir to safeguard hydrology and wildlife.
- Transparent dialogue between government, communities, NGOs, and SUHAKAM.
- Support for sustainable alternatives such as eco-tourism, aquaculture, and community forestry
By signing this petition, you stand with us in defending Sarawak’s natural heritage, the safety of Bakun Dam, and the rights of indigenous communities.

146
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Petition created on 18 September 2025