State Firm `Respects the Environment’

LAHAD DATU: The visit may have been friendly but the Department of Environment (DOE) left a blunt message for state-owned POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd.

“We hope no one needs to be hauled to court,” said DOE assistant director (development) Amirul Aripin after a briefing by POIC on its progress recently.

POIC, which is involved in the development of a oil palm industrial cluster here, has been asked to consult the department on breaches of environmental laws.

POIC must also monitor its contractors and investors to ensure they complied with the law, Amirul said.

“For example, open burning is prohibited but many sub- contractors ignore the law.”

POIC Environmental Management Unit head Allan Dumbong pledged to ensure all stakeholders in the 500ha site understood the environment laws.

“We are aware of public concern on environmental issues. It is our responsibility to ensure that the social and natural environment of Lahad Datu is not compromised,” Dumbong said.

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