KOTA KINABALU: Apart from attracting nature lovers, Sabah’s spectacular Rafflesia flower is set to become a symbol of empowerment for rural communities through an initiative that could turn conservation into a sustainable economic opportunity.
Conservationist and Borneo Eco Tours managing director Albert Teo has proposed that villagers living near natural Rafflesia sites take the lead in managing and guiding visitors, making the flower a community-led eco-tourism product.
He made the proposal during a recent meeting with Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, adding that the Rafflesia’s rarity and brief blooming period make it an exclusive draw for eco-conscious travellers.
“There are already Rafflesia species growing near villages. With basic infrastructure and training, locals could host guided treks and educate visitors while protecting a fragile part of their natural heritage.”
Teo also proposed the creation of a Rafflesia Community Alliance, a network of villages with access to known Rafflesia sites, to encourage collaboration and strengthen local ownership.
Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, welcomed the proposal and said the state government supports tourism models that engage local communities, particularly when they involve Sabah’s natural and cultural heritage.
“Rafflesia has long been a symbol of Sabah’s biodiversity. It is time to identify villages that can benefit from this venture while ensuring responsible and sustainable tourism practices.”
He added that the state tourism board would explore mapping Rafflesia sites near villages, particularly in Tambunan, Ranau and along the Crocker Range, which are areas already popular for nature-based tourism.
“Empowering locals fosters long-term conservation. When people see value in protecting something, they take ownership. That’s how we build sustainability and pride,” Bangkuai said, aligning the idea with Sabah’s Culture, Adventure and Nature tourism approach.
Sabah is home to three of the world’s 15 known Rafflesia species, namely Rafflesia keithii, Rafflesia pricei and Rafflesia tengku-adlinii.
The third, the rarest of the trio, is named after Datuk Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin Tengku Mahamood, a key figure in Sabah’s tourism and conservation movement.
