KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has identified four areas for proposed gazettement under the Sabah Parks Board of Trustees, reinforcing its commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism.
The sites, namely Teluk Darvel and Tambisan Island in Lahad Datu, Mengalum Island in Kota Kinabalu, and Mantanani Waters in Kota Belud are set to come under the protection of Sabah Parks.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew (pic) made the announcement during the Sabah Parks Appreciation Night 2024 recently, highlighting that these efforts align with Malaysia’s pledge under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
The framework, part of the Convention on Biological Diversity, includes the ambitious 30x30 target, which aims to protect 30% of the nation’s biodiversity by 2030.
“At the same time, Sabah Parks needs to prepare for a surge in visitors in 2026, as Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia Year. With a national target of 35.6 million tourists, infrastructure and services across existing Sabah Parks sites must be in prime condition to accommodate the expected influx,” she said.
The Sabah Parks has lined up an extensive programme featuring 154 events, including 49 major national and international engagements.
Among the highlights are the coral restoration project in Taman Tun Mustapha in Kudat, the Malaysia Geopark Network Conference, and the Young Ranger Programme at both state and national levels.
Liew reiterated the ministry’s commitment to supporting Sabah Parks in its conservation and sustainability goals, ensuring that nature and tourism continue to coexist harmoniously.
“In 2024, Sabah Parks successfully executed 79 events as part of its Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Key milestones included the proclamation of Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark, implementation of a cashless financial system across all parks from Jan 1, and the opening of the Mount Kinabalu High Altitude Climbing Training Centre and the Earthquake Gallery in October,” she said.
She added that the establishment of the Community Sustainability and Development Centre in July also stood out as a significant step towards engaging local communities in conservation efforts.
“Sabah Parks’ dedication to environmental education and sustainable development earned it the prestigious Chief Minister’s Special Award as a Global Champion in Conservation, Sustainability, and Community Development.
“This recognition reflects Sabah Parks’ unwavering commitment to protecting natural resources, improving infrastructure, and empowering local communities in line with the Sabah government’s strategic vision,” said Liew.
The evening also served as a platform to honour the contributions of Sabah Parks retirees and outstanding staff.
Liew presented certificates of appreciation and retirement gifts to 18 former employees, while its chairman Peter Lintar and director Dr Maklarin Lakim recognised key stakeholders, awarding the Excellent Service Award and Director’s Special Award to deserving individuals.
