Sustainable management of rivers in Malaysia: Involving all stakeholders

Abstract

All over the world, including Malaysia, management of rivers is a central issue in this 21st Century. While government has always been traditionally entrusted with the responsibility of managing rivers, increasingly, the public, NGOs (Non‐Governmental Organisations), industrialists, farmers, and other stakeholders are playing a greater role. Sustainable management of rivers involves cooperation between countries and states sharing the same river basin, and cooperation between government and all stakeholders. Internationally, countries need to negotiate and use rivers as the basis for peace rather than conflict. In Malaysia, the Federal Government can initiate policies and remain in charge of governance of rivers, in consultation and cooperation with state governments. However, government must relinquish some of its responsibility on river management to all other stakeholders, viz. industrialists, entrepreneurs, farmers, communities/squatters, NGOs, educational institutions, fishermen, conservationists, tourists, the general public, etc. All stakeholders need to start taking proactive actions, even sacrifices, to manage, protect, conserve and restore our rivers so that their resources can be sustained for future use. This is where people from all levels ranging from politicians, policy makers, private companies, NGOs to individuals can play crucial roles. River management and related river issues need to involve NGOs and the people as these issues happen at the local level. Decision‐making regarding solutions should be carried out at the lowest appropriate level, ideally involving all stakeholders ranging from government to the private sector, NGOs, the local community and schools. People should be the focus both in decision making as well as active “workers” involved with restoration work. The motto of “Malaysia Boleh” (Malaysia Can) involves all Malaysians. This paper discusses how all stakeholders can contribute by working together in smart‐partnerships with government towards effective and sustainable management of rivers in Malaysia.