KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Government backs collaborative, ground-driven conservation efforts, particularly in reforestation and habitat restoration, said Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
He said closer coordination among government agencies, non-governmental organisations and private sector players is crucial to ensure conservation initiatives are carried out more effectively.
“We know the challenges. Habitat fragmentation and environmental pressures are real, but what is encouraging is that many organisations are not waiting for things to worsen.
“They are already taking action on the ground,” he said, when speaking at the Reforestation Partners Appreciation Event organised by 1Stop Borneo Wildlife at a hotel.
Joniston said Sabah’s globally recognised biodiversity comes with a responsibility to protect it, especially amid ongoing development and land use changes.
He commended the consistent efforts of groups such as KOPEL, APE Malaysia and BORA, describing their work as important in sustaining the state’s natural ecosystems.
He also highlighted the approach by 1StopBorneo Wildlife, noting that its initiatives go beyond tree-planting by focusing on restoring ecological functions, including planting species that support wildlife and encourage their return.
Joniston said such efforts are strengthened through collaboration with agencies like the Forestry Department and Sabah Parks, as well as private sector partners including Teck Guan Group.
“These partnerships are helping to establish wildlife corridors, which are critical in reconnecting fragmented habitats. This is exactly the kind of cooperation we want to see more of,” he said.
He added that similar collaboration is taking place in urban areas through joint efforts with Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and the police, where trees growing on buildings are carefully relocated and replanted instead of being removed.
“This reflects how ideas from practitioners on the ground can be turned into practical solutions with the support of the authorities,” he said.
Joniston noted that early signs of progress are visible, including the gradual return of wildlife in some restored areas, highlighting the importance of continued and collective efforts.
He said the State Government will continue to support such collaborations to ensure conservation efforts are aligned and not carried out in isolation. – Wu Vuide
Joniston presenting reforestation appreciation certificate to a representative of Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resorts.
