SANDAKAN: The 11th Annual Beach Cleaning Programme, organized by Friends of Sea Turtles Education and Research (FOSTER) and sponsored by the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting sea turtle nesting habitats on Libaran Island.
The recent initiative saw strong community participation. STB’s sponsorship directly supports local villagers, who receive an allowance for cleaning assigned 100-metre beach sections. This model ensures both effective conservation and socioeconomic benefits for the community.
Since 2014, the programme has been central to FOSTER’s efforts. Keeping beaches debris-free is critical for successful turtle nesting. Over the past decade, these integrated activities have contributed to the release of over 48,000 hatchlings into the sea.
FOSTER President Alexander Yee thanked STB for its steadfast partnership. “Our achievements are a testament to collaborative action,” he stated.
Looking forward, FOSTER will expand education and outreach in 2026 to address threats like plastic pollution. The organisation also announced the return of its charity fundraiser, the 5th Edition of Sepilok Jazz in 2026, with all ticket sales supporting ongoing conservation work. – James Leong
Alexander Yee (second from left), FOSTER workers, and a village official install an STB sponsorship sign on the island’s beach.
