Despite Protests, Malaysia Still Plans to Build a Mega Dam That Could Displace 20,000 Indigenous People · Global Voices
Mong Palatino

View of Baram, Sarawak, that will be affected by a dam project. Photo from Jettie Word, republished with permission
The local government of Sarawak in Malaysia is building a mega dam despite the fierce opposition of residents and indigenous peoples who will be affected by the project. Sarawak is part of Borneo Island, which is famous for its rich natural resources.
A proposed dam in Baram, located in the northern part Sarawak, is expected to generate 1, 200 megawatts of electricity, but many fear that it will submerge 412 square kilometers of rainforest. In addition, about 20,000 people from 27 settlements of Kayan, Kenyah, and Penan indigenous groups will be forcibly displaced during the construction of the dam. The Baram Dam is one of the 12 mega dams that the local government is planning to build in Sarawak.
Peter N. J. Kallang, a local leader and anti-dam activist, warned that the dam will wipe out the core population of Baram’s indigenous groups:
It is built for the benefit of others rather than those who live in Baram and for the long term good of the Baram.
As one of those affected I just can’t understand this injustice and this outrageous and abusive exploit. This seems to be a senseless exploitation which is primarily driven by avarice coupled with immorality. For us who are directly and adversely affected parties, no one can blame us in thinking that this is a calculated, intentional and purposeful maneuver to wipe out our races.
Since last year, local residents have put up a blockade to prevent the construction of the dam. They have also appealed to other communities in Malaysia and environmental networks all over the world to support their campaign against the dam.
Protest against the Baram Dam project. Photo from the Facebook page of Save Rivers
A blockade was set up by local residents to stop the dam construction. Photo from the Facebook page of Save Rivers
Rally against Baram Dam project. Photo from Sarawak Report
Blockade protest continues in Baram. Photo from Jettie Word, republished with permission.
Last week, during the 555th day of the community-led Baram Dam blockade, a documentary was released by The Borneo Project which explained why the dam project in Sarawak is not necessary and how it will not benefit the local population. The film also probed if corruption was a big factor in implementing the dam project.
Protests are expected to intensify after the government ordered the construction of the Baram Dam a few days ago.