He said the project aimed to serve three main objectives, namely as an electricity generator, for flood mitigation and as a source of clean water. In addition, the dam will also promote ecotourism.

The project also received the support of more than 80% of respondents based on several studies done previously, Takiyuddin told a media conference here today.

He said an environmental impact assessment (EIA), heritage impact assessment (HIA) and social impact assessment (SIA) had been conducted for the project.

The Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) was also involved as the “middleman” for the Orang Asli community during negotiations with the government and Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB).

Takiyuddin said this in response to allegations by some parties that the construction of the Nenggiri dam would affect the lives of the Orang Asli in the construction area and urged the government to cancel the project.

He said implementation of the project also involved resettlement of the Orang Asli community in three villages, with funding provided by the government and TNB.

“They will not only be given houses, but also farms and other amenities,” he added.

Prior to this, Takiyuddin was reported to have said that the RM5 billion project was expected to start generating electricity in mid-2027 and it would increase the electricity capacity of renewable energy (RE) in Peninsular Malaysia.

He said the project served as a key driver of the country’s energy industry and strengthened efforts to ensure a stable and reliable electricity supply for the people.

The project, which will generate 300 megawatts (MW), was approved in principle by the federal government in 2012 and obtained approval from the Kelantan government in March 2014, he said.

The project was launched by Kelantan menteri besar Ahmad Yakob on Sunday.