KUCHING: Conservation must be treated as a long-term investment rather than a cost as Sarawak steps up efforts to safeguard its biodiversity and natural heritage.
Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said protecting wildlife and ecosystems is key to the state’s environmental, social, cultural and economic wellbeing.
He said this when officiating the World Wildlife Day 2026 celebration at Matang Wildlife Centre here yesterday.
“Biodiversity is a valuable state asset with high environmental, social, cultural and economic value, and protecting it means safeguarding the long-term wellbeing of the people,” he said.
Len Talif noted that this year’s theme, ‘Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Sustaining Health, Heritage and Economic Resources’, reflects the growing importance of natural resources in research, traditional knowledge and sustainable community development.
He said conservation efforts must now move beyond reactive approaches, calling for science-based planning, stronger policies and greater community participation amid increasing pressures from land-use changes, climate change and habitat loss.
“Development is necessary, but it must not come at the expense of our natural heritage, which remains a key strength and identity of Sarawak,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said the agency continues to play a central role in managing and protecting the state’s wildlife and forest resources through enforcement, rehabilitation and public education initiatives.
He said Matang Wildlife Centre serves as a key platform for conservation and education, housing rescue and rehabilitation efforts for protected species such as orangutans, sun bears and hornbills.
“The centre is not just a facility, but a place of learning and hope, where wildlife is given a second chance and the public gains a deeper understanding of conservation,” he said.
The event also featured a community tree-planting activity, symbolising a collective commitment to translating conservation efforts into tangible action.
Abang Arabi added that collaboration among government agencies, local communities, researchers and industry players remains crucial in advancing conservation efforts and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
He said SFC will continue to strengthen public awareness, support biodiversity research and explore green economic approaches that balance environmental protection with development.
