‘Lost world’: An aerial view showing part of the Maliau Basin Conservation Area in Sabah.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s renowned Maliau Basin, dubbed the “Lost World” due to its remote and uncharted landscapes, is now having its ecological riches mapped out in a major survey.
Yayasan Sabah director Datuk Gulam Haidar Khan Bahadar hoped the two-week Maliau Basin Resources and Wildlife Survey, beginning yesterday, would cement Sabah’s conservation efforts across the extensive terrain of the Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA).
He said the major survey was part of efforts by Yayasan Sabah in drafting the third MBCA Strategic Management Plan.
“An extensive wildlife and resource study is underway to gather the latest information on the biodiversity of flora and fauna in MBCA and its surrounding area,” he said.
The survey’s objectives include compiling essential data for the management plan, documenting wildlife abundance and distribution, assessing the area’s potential for tourism development and identifying research areas for future explorations, he added.
“With over 100 participants, including distinguished researchers, government officials and support personnel, we aim to examine every facet comprehensively,” Gulam Haidar said.
A total of nine campsites have been identified for the survey, with participants assigned to ensure comprehensive coverage within a 5km radius.
Spearheaded by the Sabah Wildlife Department, the organising committee also includes the Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Parks, Hutan-Kinabatangan Orangutan Conservation Programme, WWF Malaysia, Sabah Environmental Trust, Sabah Tourist Guides Association and various universities.
This survey is the second following the initial survey in 2013.
After the survey, a seminar will be held to spotlight the findings.
“This initiative will culminate in a comprehensive report, aiding in the formulation of the third MBCA Strategic Management Plan.
“We aim to review the existing management plan and explore new methodologies meticulously.
“This will be achieved through a collaborative approach, ensuring diverse perspectives for the benefit of both nature and humanity,” Gulam Haidar said.
