KUCHING: Strategic collaboration between the federal government and the Sarawak government reflects the strong synergy in protecting the nation’s biodiversity heritage in a comprehensive and sustainable manner.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak is fortunate to be endowed with extraordinary biodiversity – not only home to a wide variety of flora and fauna species, but also represents a natural heritage that must be preserved for future generations.
“In this regard, the Sarawak government has set a clear vision to make Sarawak a region that leads in the sustainable management of natural resources, in line with the green development agenda and a low-carbon economy.
“Hence, the government has outlined several key missions, including to strengthen the enforcement of laws related to wildlife protection and forest areas through integrated approaches such as the implementation of Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah (OBK).
“Secondly, empowering local community involvement through initiatives such as the appointment of Community Rangers which we believe that communities are at the forefront of conservation efforts, as they are the closest to the environment,” he said.
Furthermore, Abang Johari emphasised on enhancing public awareness and education through programmes such as 1,000 Site Visit to Save Wildlife.
“This initiative is crucial to ensure that the public understands their role in protecting wildlife and ecosystems.
He also highlighted Sarawak Forestry Corporation’s (SFC) continuous effort to strengthen the management of protected areas such as national parks and wildlife centres, as well as rehabilitation programmes and the reintroduction of species into their natural habitats.
“We also need to focus on the use of technology and innovative approaches in biodiversity monitoring, including field data collection to support more effective management decisions,” he said.
Abang Johari said this in his text of speech read by Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh at 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 here Saturday morning.
He added these initiatives demonstrate that SFC not only plays its role as an implementing agency, but also acts as a leader in ensuring the sustainability of Sarawak’s natural heritage continues to be preserved.
“The Sarawak government remains committed to ensuring that economic development does not come at the expense of environmental sustainability.
“We adopt a balanced development approach, where economic progress goes hand in hand with the preservation of the natural environment.
The implementation of initiatives such as today reflects our commitment to combating illegal hunting activities, protecting endangered species, and ensuring that Sarawak’s natural heritage continues to be preserved,” he said.
