By Shikin Louis & Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 13: The Sarawak government, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Malaysia, is currently formulating the Sarawak Biodiversity Masterplan, aimed at integrating biodiversity factors into Sarawak’s developmental agenda, with the goal of effectively conserving and preserving its natural resources.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that Sarawak stands out with its 2.1 million hectares of fully protected areas, including marine territories, surpassing any other Malaysian states in terms of the total expanse of protected areas.
Notably, he shared that Sarawak boasts an impressive array of 47 national parks, 16 nature reserves, and five wildlife sanctuaries. Furthermore, the Bukit Siol Nature Reserve, a forthcoming addition of protected area within the city limits spanning 45 hectares, is home to the oriental pied hornbills.
“It is not just a number but a testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our unique flora and fauna.
“Abundantly endowed with diverse ecosystems, stretching from highland areas to coastal regions, Sarawak is a place of incredible biodiversity and ecological wonder. These riches must be protected and conserved for the wellbeing and prosperity of its inhabitants,” he said when officiating at the opening ceremony of Asia For Animals (AFA) Sarawak Conference 2023 held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.
Abang Johari affirmed that Sarawak is resolutely committed to transforming the State into a sustainable and eco-friendly urban centre, fully recognising the paramount importance of environmental sustainability.
In pursuing this objective, he said the government is actively implementing a range of sustainable urban development strategies, including the construction of energy-efficient buildings, the establishment of eco-friendly transportation systems, and the expansion of green spaces within the cities.
“Additionally, we are actively advocating for adopting renewable energy sources and are diligently working to reduce our carbon footprint. These efforts align with our commitment to the Paris Agreement on climate change.
“We want to develop cities that are not only habitable but also promote health and vitality while addressing the needs of current residents and safeguarding the environment for future generations,” he said.
Abang Johari noted that Sarawak’s residents have relied upon the State’s varied ecosystems for vital, life-sustaining services, including access to clean water, sustenance, energy resources, economic growth, and preservation of cultural traditions.
“Consequently, the Sarawak government acknowledges the critical importance of biodiversity and is committed to fulfilling its obligation to safeguard and conserve the State’s biodiversity, recognising the intrinsic connection it shares with the natural world,” he added.
The AfA Sarawak Conference 2023, themed “Education and Engagement Bring Change”, saw 400 delegates and 82 speakers from more than 23 countries converge at BCCK, exploring an array of impactful initiatives, studies, campaigns, and research projects that underscore the profound connection between animals, education, engagement, and the positive transformations that ensue.
Amongst those present were Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG) Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development (MFICORD) Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom; Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee; Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) president Datin Dona Drury Wee; Asia for Animals Coalition (AfA) 2023 chairman Dave Neale; and Place Borneo Sdn Bhd director Gracie Geikie who is also SSPCA chairperson and the event’s organising chairperson. — DayakDaily
