NIAH: The Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation (IBEC) of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) recently organised a high-impact community service programme at Niah National Park, Miri in conjunction with the first anniversary of Niah National Park’s recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The programme was held in collaboration with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) as an initiative to unite academic institutions and local communities in efforts to strengthen awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation and the preservation of the nation’s heritage ecosystems.
Carrying the theme ‘Co-guardians of Niah National Park through Citizen Science’, the programme highlighted the active role of local communities in environmental preservation through a citizen science approach.
Educational activities involving students from four schools located near Niah National Park were also part of the programme.
“The organisation of this programme was based on four main objectives, namely, to expose the community to ecological principles and the benefits of biodiversity to humankind, to instil love and appreciation for the environment as a key aspect of ensuring the sustainable use of the country’s biotic wealth without causing destruction,” said UNIMAS through a press statement today.
“The next objective was to provide participants with an understanding of the legal provisions and laws related to biodiversity conservation, the responsibilities of the relevant agencies, and to create opportunities for the community to enjoy a cleaner and more comfortable environment especially by ensuring that rivers in village areas remain clean and pollution-free.
“The programme received overwhelming support from the local community, with a total of 133 participants comprising representatives from government agencies and departments, community leaders such as Tuai Rumah, Penghulu, and Kapitan, as well as teachers and students, all showing strong support for such initiatives,” it said.
IBEC is optimistic that the continued organisation of community programmes like this will not only strengthen the relationship between the university and the community but also play a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of the nation’s biodiversity, particularly in world heritage sites such as Niah National Park.
