WORSENING ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS, IMMEDIATE MEASURES NEEDED

KOTA KINABALU (Malaysia), Aug 9 (Bernama) -- Environmental conservation
efforts must be carried out fast due to the environmental crisis that is
increasingly worrying, said Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister
Bernard Dompok.

He said effective measures were needed as people all over the world,
including in Malaysia, were feeling the effects of climate change of late.

"Climate change has brought about frequent droughts and flooding, weather
changes, rising sea water levels, and frequent vector-borne disease outbreaks
which have adversely affected the agriculture sector.

"In the current situation, tackling environmental issues requires the full
cooperation of all quarters, including leaders, to ensure the well-being of the
people," he said at the launching of the flagship sustainable school programme
under the Friends of the Environment Committee, Penampang parliamentary
constituency-level, near here, Tuesday.

The text of his speech was read out by his political secretary, Philip
Lasimbang.


Dompok, who is also the member of parliament for Penampang, said proactive
measures were also required to increase public awareness on the importance of
greening and preserving the environment.

He said protecting and conserving the environment was the responsibility of
all, besides ensuring sustainable use of natural resources in the interest of
the nation and society.