Jan 2001Newsletter
Cleanup of Melaka River by State a Good Move 
      The recent focus on the state of the Melaka River is long overdue, but much needed. The Malaysian Nature Society is well aware of the condition of the river and is very glad that the State authorities have decided to take immediate action in cleaning it up.  What is happening to the Melaka River is perhaps symptomatic of the condition of rivers flowing within urban areas in Malaysia, (or what is going to happen to rivers flowing within soon-to-be urban centers), unless concerted efforts are taken to remedy this.
      Several reports in the press recently highlighted the dissatisfaction of tourists and even residents of the historical river on the amount of rubbish found strewn along its banks and floating in its waters.  For example, it was reported that a couple of days ago a lorry was seen tipping construction debris into the river in broad daylight, and it was also reported that rubbish collected from the Melaka River amounted to one ton a day.  This is rather shocking but it is evident that those in charge of the Melaka River had failed in maintaining it, and those existing along the river-banks are treating it as a sewer.  With both high historical and ecological value, the Melaka River should be treated as a heritage and as such, MNS feel that some areas need to be urgently looked into.  This applies to other river systems as well.
  1. River reserves are necessary for any river system. Sad to say, as land is a state matter; many river reserves have been encroached by development, either legally or illegally. Planning authorities, developers and the public must realize that river reserves serve a function as buffers against erosion and floods, and should not be considered as wasted space, better utilized as built-up areas right up to the riverbank.

    2.  It is a tendency for settlements along river-banks to treat the river as convenient rubbish dumps. Once this happens, rubbish will automatically find its way and clog the rivers. Presently, legislation on river reserves are in place but sad to say, are not gazetted, and are prone to abuse. Generally, the size of a river reserve on each side of the river is at least half the width of the river.
  2. Maintenance of the natural riparian vegetation. Natural vegetation along river-banks  help in maintaining the biodiversity of these waterways as riparian fringes are habitats for a host of aquatic life. Fisheries for one depend a lot on riparian vegetation, for spawning and food needs. The depletion in riparian vegetation, including mangroves will greatly effect the fisheries industry.  In some cases, riparian vegetation functions as biological filters, filtering out excessive organic and inorganic wastes for their subsequent breakdown into less toxic compounds.
  3. Stricter enforcement.  Some of the irresponsible public has been abusing rivers and their banks as convenient disposal sites.  This is perhaps a reflection of the sad state of our solid waste situation, where dumpsites are close to overflowing, and garbage collection sub-contractors find it more convenient and cheaper to dispose the waste along secluded spots along riverbanks.  Stricter enforcement is needed from the relevant authorities to ensure that this practice is not continued.  Perhaps enforcement coupled with river rehabilitation programs will yield faster, positive results
  4. .Aggressive public awareness campaigns.  Malaysia is a newly-industrialized country, but the mindset and sanitary practices of the general population are still of   a less-developed third world nation. As such, programs have to be continuously carried out that these practices are at a level compatible with our developed status.  Large corporations, companies or industries, especially those that are situated near the river, could be roped in to help in this sector to raise awareness. Schools too should be brought in, as educating the younger generations will ensure more support in the future.
      The MNS is very glad that the Melaka Municipal Council has started the cleanup of the river by installing silt and rubbish traps at various locations, as well as deepening the river to improve water flow. These steps, as well as other efforts to beautify the Melaka River, should be applauded. Nevertheless, the MNS hopes that these measures, in addition to those suggested by MNS, be a sustained effort.  If not, then the Melaka River will revert back to the previous situation.

Dato' Dr. Salleh Mohd Nor
President
Kuala Lumpur 13 October, 2000
 
 

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Created on 1 Jan 2001