KUCHING: A total of 325 Community Rangers have been appointed to enforce law to protect Sarawak’s rich biodiversity and wildlife in ‘Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah’ (OBK).
Federal Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, said the nation’s wildlife wealth is not merely for viewing but a life-support system for humanity that ensures clean water supply, acts as a buffer against natural disasters, and supports the pollination of plants.
He said, however, the Malaysia’s biodiversity is facing a very serious threats from irresponsible parties.
“The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) is committed to strengthening the Biodiversity Protection and Patrol Programme (BP3).
“Under this programme, we have two main mechanisms, namely ‘Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah’ (OBK) and the appointment of Community Rangers.
“Since its implementation from 2019 to 2025, the execution of OBK nationwide has yielded encouraging results, recording total seizures amounting to RM413 million,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the Ceremony for the Presentation of Appointment Letters to Community Rangers and the Flag-Off of ‘Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah’, as well as the launch of the ‘1000 Visits to Save Wildlife’ Programme (Sarawak Level) at Dewan Kampung Semeba this morning.
“Particularly in Sarawak, collaboration between Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), PERHILITAN Peninsular Malaysia, Royal Malaysia Police (RMP), Malaysia Royal Customs Department (JKDM) and other agencies has successfully recorded seizure values of more than RM23 million over the same period.
“For this year, the federal government has approved an allocation of RM80.8 million for the implementation of BP3 nationwide.
“Of this amount, RM11.6 million has been allocated to SFC to appoint a total of 325 Community Rangers in Sarawak,” added Arthur.
He also said the appointed Community Rangers here are also known as Wildlife Guardian Rangers comprise of veterans from the armed forces and villagers who have the experience and skills in the jungle.
“In line with this title, remember that you are the nation’s wildlife shield. Give your utmost commitment, as it is on your shoulders that the hope rests for our wildlife to continue thriving safely,” he added.
Arthur also extended his congratulations to SFC for the initiative of the ‘1,000 Visits to Save Wildlife’ programme, which is also being launched today.
“This initiative will enhance monitoring, strengthen enforcement, and encourage active participation from local communities.
“This event sends a firm message to all biodiversity criminals that we will not compromise, and we will stand united in mobilising our efforts to combat all forms of encroachment,” he said.
