By DayakDaily Team
KOTA SAMARAHAN, Nov 5: A new land snail species and a previously undocumented ginger species have been identified in Sarawak’s forests by researchers from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas).
According to a TVS report, the discoveries made through research collaborations with the Sarawak Forest Department, involved “Hemiplecta gambut”, a new land snail species found in Simunjan Forest Reserve, and “Sulettaria kimiana”, a new ginger species identified in Sabal Forest Reserve, Simunjan.
Unimas Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit said the findings demonstrated the university’s research capabilities in exploring, identifying and documenting Borneo’s rich biodiversity.
He said the land snail discovery was led by Ts. Dr Mohd Zacaery Khalik and a team of researchers from the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology.
He shared these discoveries at the 30th UNIMAS Convocation Ceremony today.
Meanwhile, the discovery of “Sulettaria kimiana” was made by a research team led by Associate Professor Dr Qammil Muzzamil Abdullah, also known as Meekiong Kali, from the same faculty.
Ahmad Hata said the discoveries reflected the importance of scientific research in identifying, documenting and understanding the diversity of species found in Borneo.
“These discoveries not only expand scientific knowledge of local biodiversity but also demonstrate the importance of continuous research in exploring Sarawak’s natural wealth,” he said.
He said continued research was necessary to deepen understanding of local biodiversity and support conservation efforts to safeguard the state’s natural heritage for future generations. —DayakDaily
