A group photo of participants, speakers and the organisers.
KOTA KINABALU: A night walk, a taste of camping in the wilderness as well as tours around the Imbak Canyon Learning Centre in central Tongod opened students’ eyes to a whole new natural world that Sabah has to offer.
They were introduced to the flora and fauna available in Imbak Canyon, given a lesson on how conservation works and why such works were important, and how they can be part of a bigger picture to help in environmental protection initiatives.
This is part of a two-day Imbak Canyon Nature and Knowledge Orientation Programme, set in this hidden valley centered in the heart of Sabah, which aimed at raising awareness on conservation of the state’s natural heritage as well as to boost interest in conservation amongst students.
According to one of its organisers - Yayasan Sabah Group, this programme is to also provide early exposure to students about the nature-based learning facilities available at the centre, while increasing awareness of natural conservation.
Yayasan Sabah director Datuk Seri Gulamhaidar @ Yusof Khan Bahadar said during his opening speech that environmental education not only imparts knowledge but also helps shape students' character.
He said this programme serves as a platform for interaction between schools and agencies, opening opportunities for long-term collaboration in various forms, such as conservation area adoption programmes, collaborative learning modules, or nature-based community activities.
His speech was delivered by the Conservation and Environmental Management Division group manager Dr Waidi Sinun.
The participants comprising 60 people including district education officers, students, and school teachers arrived at the center on Aug 22 and checked out on Aug 24.
Among the schools within the Tongod district involved were SMK Tongod, SMK Beluran, SMK Penangah, SK Imbak, SK Pekan Tongod, and SK Keramuak. Meanwhile, schools from the Telupid district included SMK Telupid, SMK Entilibon, SMK Timbua Ranau, and SK Penangah.
Most of these students were from lower income families in rural areas who had little opportunity to experience quality out-of-classroom education programmes.
The limitation of access to information as well as educational visits to conservation areas are among the reasons for lower awareness on conservation and environment issues.
Now many are aware that the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area serves not only as a biodiversity stronghold and natural protection zone but also as a site for research, ecotourism, and environment-based education.
Earlier, Gulamhaidar said the Yayasan Sabah Group was committed to continuously fostering a spirit of love for the environment by nurturing a young generation that were more aware, responsible, and knowledgeable in protecting and conserving the environment.
He said the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, an education and nature-based tourism destination renowned for its unparalleled beauty and uniqueness, reflected the ecological richness of the state.
“Moreover, it stands as a symbol of hope that, with awareness, cooperation, and shared commitment, this natural heritage can be preserved and passed on to future generations,” he said, stressing the need for more of such awareness and learning programmes to be conducted.
