SIMUNJAN: Striking a balance between economic growth and safeguarding natural heritage lies at the heart of the Simunjan Forest Reserve Scientific Expedition 2025.
Held from Aug 16 to 25, the expedition unites researchers, scientists, students, government agencies, the private sector and local communities in documenting the peat swamp forest’s biodiversity, including endangered, endemic and keystone species.
Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris said the initiative was timely as the district had carved its name through oil palm, agriculture and inland fisheries, while still holding vast natural wealth.
“Behind the development lies a natural treasure with many secrets yet to be uncovered,” he said when officiating at the programme at Kampung Kelka Hall recently.
Jointly organised by the Sarawak Forest Department (FDS) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), the expedition also assesses soil and water quality to evaluate the forest’s ecological health.
The results are expected to inform long-term monitoring, sustainable management, eco-tourism prospects and plans for a dedicated research centre.
Awla reminded that the Simunjan Forest Reserve, gazetted on Oct 1, 1959, spans 37,350 acres and serves as a vital state asset.
“It plays a critical role as a habitat for flora and fauna, while also absorbing carbon, mitigating climate change, controlling floods, maintaining hydrological balance, providing stopovers for migratory birds and sustaining aquatic life that supports local livelihoods.
“This expedition was more than a scientific mission.
“The data gathered would form the foundation for conservation strategies, ecosystem monitoring, climate impact studies and policies built on evidence, while fostering greater public appreciation of the peat swamp’s fragility,” he added.
Studies during the expedition cover interactions between living species, peat soil, water flow and the carbon cycle, with findings to be compiled into a scientific database spanning botany, zoology, entomology, ecology and soil science.
This will serve as a resource for policymakers, researchers and students.
“Simunjan has the potential to move forward economically without compromising sustainability.
“This expedition is the starting point for strategies that balance development with preservation, so that future generations inherit this land in better condition,” he said.
Awla urged researchers, agencies, private players, students and the local community to work together to safeguard Simunjan’s peat swamp forest as an enduring natural heritage.
