KOTA KINABALU: A Sabah-based eco-tourism group seeks government support for a village clean-up and environmental education programme in Kinabatangan, one of the state’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
The Kinabatangan-Corridor of Life Tourism Operators Association (KiTA) proposes a three-part initiative. This includes constructing new waste disposal centres in Kampung Bilit and Kampung Sukau and a community river-cleaning awareness campaign.
KiTA president Johnny Lim said the initiative aims to tackle pressing waste management issues and improve environmental stewardship in the region.
"We hope the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry (KePKAS) will support this effort through a matching grant. The programme is not just about infrastructure. It is about educating the community on proper waste disposal and river conservation."
"Cleaner rivers and villages benefit residents and help sustain eco-tourism in the long run," he said after presenting the proposal to Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew during a recent courtesy visit.
Lim noted that the existing waste disposal centre in Kampung Bilit, built by KiTA in 2015, has become rundown and now undermines both the local environment and tourism appeal.
"We propose to build a new facility near the current site, working with local authorities to ensure regular waste collection," he said.
Liew welcomed the initiative, calling it a meaningful step towards protecting Kinabatangan’s natural assets while strengthening community participation in conservation.
"The Ministry will consider the application. We appreciate KiTA’s dedication to environmental sustainability, especially in areas critical to eco-tourism like Kinabatangan," she said.
Also present at the meeting were KePKAS senior assistant secretary Dr Dayang Siti Maryam Mohd Hanan, Sabah Wildlife Department director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar, and KiTA’s immediate past president, Alexander Yee Kok Tsen.
