SIBU: Sarawak is a step closer to achieving its target of gazetting one million hectares of Totally Protected Areas (TPA), reflecting the state’s continued commitment to conserving its rich natural heritage.
To date, more than 879,000 hectares have been gazetted across 71 protected areas throughout the state, comprising national parks, nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries.
Sarawak Forestry Corporation’s (SFC) General Manager, Abang Arabi Abang Aimran, said expanding protected areas remains a key priority of the Sarawak government to safeguard the state’s biodiversity for future generations.
He said the gazetted areas not only serve as vital conservation zones but also play an important role in tourism, scientific research and public recreation.
“At present, Sarawak has 71 protected areas covering more than 879,000 hectares, and we are moving closer to our target of one million hectares of TPA,” he told a press conference after the opening of the Bukit Lima Forest Park One-Stop Centre (OSC), which was officiated by Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, today.
Abang Arabi also revealed that the Usun Apau National Park, gazetted on May 18, 2005, is receiving greater attention to strengthen its potential as a nature-based tourism destination.
He said the initiative is expected to create more economic opportunities for local communities while showcasing the area’s unique attractions to visitors.
He stressed that community participation remains an essential aspect of managing protected areas.
Under Section 11 of the National Parks and Nature Reserves Ordinance, residents living near protected areas are permitted to use certain natural resources for their own needs, subject to specified conditions.
“This approach is in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which places emphasis on rural development and improving the socio-economic well-being of local communities,” he said.
On future plans, Abang Arabi said SFC is assessing several new locations for possible gazettement as national parks, including Ulu Keluan in Ulu Baram, known for the Three Sisters Waterfall, and the Sebangkoi Nature Reserve in Sarikei.
However, he noted that the proposals remain at the preliminary assessment stage and must undergo various processes before gazettement can proceed.
Also present were Bukit Assek assemblyman, Joseph Chieng Jin Ek, and Sibu Municipal Council Chairman, Councillor Clarence Ting Ing Horh.
