Kota Kinabalu: The decades-old, and possibly century-old, raintrees at the Kasigui area in Penampang near here have been spared from being felled — at least for now.
The removal of the five large trees, locally known as Kasigui trees, was scheduled for April 2. However, it has been halted following protests from environmentalists and local residents.
In a notice issued on March 31, the Penampang Municipal Council stated that the demolition works have been put on hold for reevaluation and a more thorough assessment.
This includes safety and technical considerations, adding that the council appreciates the feedback, cooperation, and concern shown by the public on the issue.
Landscape architect and arborist Eric Yee welcomed the council’s willingness to listen to public feedback and re-examine the matter.
“Now that the protests have served their purpose, it is time for all parties to work together with the Penampang Municipal Council to find a solution,” he said.
Yee added that all the trees should be retained with proper mitigation and monitoring measures.
“There is a need to improve the growing conditions of these trees, such as root space and soil structure, as well as to restrict soil compaction, among other measures,” he said.
Last week, the Penampang Municipal Council announced that the trees were to be felled on April 2. Some trimming works had already begun over the weekend, but the plans were subsequently halted following public outcry.
Many had highlighted that the trees have provided shade for traders and fishermen in the area for decades.
The trees are believed to have been in the area since the British colonial period.
