SANDAKAN: The Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) and the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) announced the publication of a comprehensive new book, a seminal work on the restoration and sustainable management of Sabah’s pristine mangrove forests.
The publication, launched at the “International Conference of Borneo’s Green Heart,” serves as both a testament to a successful collaboration and a vital roadmap for protecting one of the world’s most critical ecosystems. Sabah’s mangroves are not only biodiversity hotspots but also natural powerhouses in the fight against climate change, sequestering vast amounts of carbon while protecting coastlines and supporting local livelihoods.
“This book is more than a publication; it is a legacy document,” said Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan.
“It offers an invaluable resource for policymakers, scientists, and communities to understand the complexities of our mangrove ecosystems and the innovative approaches we are implementing to ensure their resilience for generations to come. We are deeply grateful to our partners at ISME and our generous supporters, including Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire Insurance Co. Ltd., for their unwavering commitment to this cause.”
The launch event in Kota Kinabalu on 22 October 2025 was presided over by the guest of honour, Deputy State Secretary (Administration), Datuk Norlijah Hj. Danin, underscoring the State Government’s commitment to environmental leadership. The publication synthesizes years of on-the-ground research and management experience from the SFD-ISME Collaborative Project, offering scalable solutions to global threats such as habitat degradation and climate change.
It is hoped that this work will inspire and guide similar conservation efforts across the region, solidifying Sabah’s position as a leader in tropical forest management.
ISME is a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting research, conservation, and sustainable management of mangrove and other coastal ecosystems through international cooperation and knowledge sharing. – James Leong
