Tun Mustapha Park to undergo Green List Evaluation
KOTA KINABALU: The Tun Mustapha Park (TMP) is now preparing for its International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List Evaluation, said WWF-Malaysia.
Its chief executive officer, Sophia Lim, said the site is one of Sabah's iconic marine protected areas which is managed by Sabah Parks.
"This process involves assessing how well the park is managed and protected to meet international standards.
"It reflects Sabah's ongoing, collective commitment to conservation excellence. Together, we can make it happen," she said in a statement.
Located on the North of Sabah, TMP was officially gazetted and established in May 19, 2016, making it the biggest natural park and the first multi-use park in Malaysia.
The 898,000ha park is home to over 528 species of fish, 250 species of coral, three endangered sea turtle species, dugongs, dolphins, and iconic species such as whale sharks and whales.
Last month, Sabah Parks received recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records for planting 12,000 coral fragments off the park.
Commenting on Pin Supu Forest Reserve (PSFR) in Kinabatangan having officially been awarded IUCN Green List status, Lim said that it was a testament to the commitment to conserving biodiversity while supporting economic growth and social inclusion.
"The partnership between the Sabah Forestry Department and KOPEL (Tourism Corporative) is inspiring, representing over two decades of dedicated, community-driven conservation.
"We hope to see more protected and conserved areas across Malaysia achieve this global standard.
"This milestone highlights the success of local collaboration and places Pin Supu Forest Reserve alongside some of the world's best-managed Protected Areas."
The certification, which was issued in May and valid for a period of five years, places Pin Supu Forest Reserve as among the world's best-managed and most effectively governed protected areas.
Pin Supu is a Class VI Virgin Forest Reserve, encompassing 4,620 hectares, surrounded by five villages to assist in conservation projects.
A 10-year joint forest management agreement (2016-2026) was established between the Sabah government through the SFD and Kopel Bhd.
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