Sarawak

The blockade which was first set up by the Penan at Lone Mobui earlier this year is still ongoing. The blockade has successfully prevented the forest from being logged, but it has taken its toll on the Penan. Shortage of food and medicine and trie lack of clean drinking water has resulted in the death of nine Penan . There is also the constant threat of violence from the police and paramilitary as well as from the logging company Samling Timber Company. The Penans at the blockade site maintain that they are ready to die to save the last of the rainforests and land for their children.

On 22 July, 15 people mirrored the ongoing struggle in Sarawak by forming a human and timber blockade outside the Malaysian High Commission in Belgrave Square, London. Eight people were arrested. On arrest each of the eight gave a Penan name. The eight's trial date is the 16th-17th December, at Horseferry Road Magistrates Court. There will be a demonstration outside the Malaysian High Commission on this day.

Contact Sarawak Solidarity Campaign 071 403 2876.