KUCHING: Japan’s enduring partnership with Sarawak is playing a key role in protecting the state’s orangutan population, with over four decades of dedicated conservation support now bearing fruit.
The Sarawak State Coordinator for the Malaysia-Japan Association, Kazue Sakai, has led this initiative for over 40 years, leveraging art and environmental education to raise awareness about orangutan conservation.
Her efforts have included bringing Japanese students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to Sarawak to participate in tree-planting activities and support ongoing ecological projects.
Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development Datuk Len Talif, praised this international collaboration, noting that such long-term engagement not only boosts global awareness of conservation issues but also positions Sarawak as an important destination for ecological research and sustainable tourism.
“Collaborations like these strengthen global ties and reinforce Sarawak’s image as a leader in environmental stewardship,” he said during a ceremony to hand over an orangutan oil painting at Wisma Sumber Alam today.
Despite having a smaller orangutan population estimated at around 2,500 individuals compared to Sabah and Kalimantan, Sarawak has recorded positive outcomes from its conservation efforts, particularly at the Semenggoh Nature Reserve.
There, a unique approach allows orangutans to live freely in their natural habitat, with minimal human interference.
“This hands-off strategy is what sets Semenggoh apart from other centres, and it’s showing real success, especially in terms of births recorded,” he said.
He also stressed that conservation in Sarawak is a shared responsibility involving local communities, government bodies, and international allies, all working to ensure the long-term protection of biodiversity.
Sarawak’s development blueprint has prioritised sustainability, exemplified by the Second Trunk Road project through Ulu Sebuyau National Park, which is being constructed as an elevated highway to minimise disruption to natural ecosystems.
“This design allows wildlife habitats to remain undisturbed and ensures the area remains a Totally Protected Area (TPA),” said Len.
Currently, Sarawak has four TPAs identified as orangutan habitats: Batang Ai National Park, Ulu Sebuyau National Park, Sedilu National Park, and the Lanjak-Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary, which borders Kalimantan.
These efforts fall under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which champions a balanced approach to economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.
