'Pillars of Sabah' returns with focus on wildlife conservation

KOTA KINABALU: The "Pillars of Sabah" art project is back for a second edition and it aims to educate the public on the importance of wildlife conservation.  

Launched in conjunction with Earth Hour 2019, the project saw 30 Sabahan artists use their creativity and talent to beautify the pillars with 30 different endangered animals in the state.  

Local filmmaker Jared Abdul Rahman said after the success of the first "Pillars of Sabah" project, which he co-organised with renowned artist Red Hong Yi, the team started discussing on the need of a second edition.  

"We started collaborating and having meetings with WWF-Malaysia. Knowing that Earth Hour was coming up in March, it steered the direction of our new and improved second theme.  

"Just like how the first 'Pillars of Sabah' brought the community together, this second project brings people together. This time, it celebrates the environment as well as our state's rich and unique biodiversity.  

"All the pillars carry a threatened species found here in Sabah. Not all are endemic, but all can be found here," he said at the launch of the event in Sabah Street Art Gallery here Saturday (March 30).  

For the second "Pillars of Sabah" project, Jared and Red were joined by a third co-organiser, Mel Lo, who thanked the sponsors and artists for their contributions to the cause.  

"We want this space to be like a classroom for the artists and we want everyone to benefit from the project. The public can use this as a free art gallery where they can learn about different styles of art," said Mel.  

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry (KePKAS) permanent secretary William Baya commended the Pillars of Sabah team and WWF-Malaysia for their efforts in beautifying a part of Kota Kinabalu's historical landmark as well as highlighting wildlife.

"For the past 10 years, people around the world have come together every Earth Hour to support efforts to tackle climate change. Climate change remains a big challenge for us all.

"But another urgent threat now demands our attention: the loss of nature. These two combined threats mean we must act now.

"This is where the 'Pillars of Sabah' project can play an important role. These pillars are painted with 30 different endangered wildlife whether in the forest or in the sea. It is my hope that the pillars will be a platform of education for all who come here to admire the art," he said in his speech.