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The underground dam, based on a similar project in Japan, would be the first of its kind in Malaysia.
He said the construction of the underground dam was one of the initiatives proposed by the National Water Research Institute of Malaysia to meet the demand for domestic water supply.
“The study confirms that an underground dam can indeed be built in Langkawi because there are two hills, and only one section needs to be blocked to store water for use,” he said. “It is now in the final stages of implementation.”
No new logging, mining licences
Speaking to reporters after launching World Environment Day celebrations, Sanusi said no new approvals will be granted for logging or mining activities in Kedah.
“This is a step towards preserving the sustainability and natural resources of the state. There are applications…but usually the recent applications, we do not approve, even if they are from state government subsidiaries,” he said.
Previously approved logging activities found to be in sensitive areas will be considered for relocation.
“If there are approved areas that subsequently raise environmental issues, cause pollution, disrupt water sources, or affect life, they need to be moved to less sensitive locations.
“Nearly 80,000 hectares of land have been approved previously, including for forest plantation projects and various others,” he said.
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