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Daily Express
05-08-2025
- Science
- Daily Express
Sabah Parks research has global impact
Published on: Tuesday, August 05, 2025 Published on: Tue, Aug 05, 2025 By: Wu Vui Tek Text Size: Peter (right), Rimi (left) and guests holding copies of the Sabah Parks junior ranger module. Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Parks aims to become a future centre of excellence in tropical ecosystem research and community conservation education. Chairman of the Sabah Parks Board of Trustees, Datuk Peter Lintar, said research conducted in Sabah Parks has the potential to make a significant impact on the management of protected areas, not only at the local level but also globally. 'Our success in achieving the Unesco Triple Crown recognition is proof that we are on the right track. 'And I believe we can attain similar standards across all parks under our stewardship,' he said during the launch of the Sabah Parks Scientific Research Seminar 2025 at a hotel. He reminded everyone that research efforts must align with the organisation's vision and mission, while also supporting the Sabah Parks Strategic Plan. He said the plan outlines nine biologically diverse areas of global importance, ensuring that these parks are well managed so their heritage is preserved for the benefit of the people of Sabah and humanity at large. Advertisement Despite the El Niño phenomenon that caused severe coral bleaching worldwide last year, he said Sabah remains one of the regions still rich in biological treasures. He said the Greenhouse Gas Inventory report, presented in the State Legislative Assembly recently, showed that Sabah is among the few states that absorb more carbon than they emit. 'Therefore, our duty is not only to protect, but also to ensure that this wealth is understood, studied and wisely passed on,' he said. He said researchers must translate complex phenomena into reports that can be understood by the general public and park management. 'Scientific communication bridges the gap between discovery and practical application. It ensures that knowledge from research does not remain locked in laboratories and journal papers but is applied for the benefit of society and decision-makers,' he said. Peter also launched the Sabah Parks Junior Ranger Education Module, an educational document marking the beginning of a transformation. It is an initiative to instil conservation values through a fun and ecosystem-based approach rooted in the local environment. Sabah Parks Deputy Director, Rimi Repin, said the scientific seminar was first held in 2008. After 13 years, they have come together again to present research papers by various units from Sabah Parks in this sixth seminar, themed The Contribution of Science and Education in the Management and Protection of Sabah Parks, in alignment with the draft Strategic Plan Goals 2026 to 2036. Findings from past research have led to recommendations and guidance for improving policies, management and park operations, she said. For example, she said the recommendation to close several diving areas in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park last year was based on scientific data on coral bleaching incidents, while the eradication of invasive plant species in Kinabalu Park has been carried out over the past two years as part of ecosystem management efforts. The seminar has five main objectives: to showcase the latest research conducted by Sabah Parks research officers; to encourage the sharing of knowledge and experience among researchers and other divisions; and to raise awareness of the contribution of science in the management and protection of Sabah's parks. The other objectives are to serve as a platform for discussion and the formation of future strategies in research and conservation; and to strengthen strategic networks with research institutions, authorities and the local scientific community. A total of 12 papers from various Sabah Parks divisions will be presented at the seminar, covering topics ranging from environmental science, social science and community, public education, to effective management. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Sabah passes landmark Climate Change and Carbon Governance Enactment 2025
Abidin KOTA KINABALU (July 8): The Sabah State Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed the Sabah Climate Change and Carbon Governance Enactment 2025, marking a major milestone in the state's efforts to address climate change and regulate carbon-related activities. Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Abidin Madingkir, who presented the Bill, said Sabah is already experiencing the serious impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, erratic weather, floods and droughts. 'These are no longer predictions of the future — they are unfolding before our very eyes,' said Abidin. In response to this reality, the Sabah Government has established the Sabah Climate Action Council (SCAC), which will serve as the state's top policy advisory body on climate issues. The new law reinforces SCAC's role and introduces a two-tier governance structure: the SCAC will function as the policy-making body, while a director will oversee carbon-related activities and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. All carbon rights are vested in the State Government, positioning the SCAC as the central authority for all carbon matters. 'This ensures that the benefits and revenues from carbon interests are returned to the people and the state,' said Abidin. The legislation adopts a top-down governance model, integrating climate priorities across all ministries and departments and aligning with national and international frameworks. Carbon assets will be leveraged to support economic growth while protecting employment and the welfare of vulnerable communities. Abidin emphasized that environmental matters fall under the residual powers of the state as per Article 77 of the Federal Constitution. He further noted that land, forests and water are under the State List (List II), providing legal justification for the enactment. The Bill also emphasizes protecting the rights and involvement of indigenous communities, particularly in carbon activities conducted on native customary land. Any such proposals must involve direct consultation and offer appropriate benefits to the affected communities. Beyond carbon activities, the Enactment mandates GHG emissions reporting by entities named under the law. This data is crucial for informed climate policy and planning, and it strengthens Sabah's reputation in climate governance. Abidin revealed that in 2024, Sabah completed its first Greenhouse Gas Inventory, showing that the state is a net carbon sink — absorbing more carbon than it emits. Sabah is estimated to contribute 36% of Malaysia's total carbon absorption, a status that offers strategic economic advantages amid the global push for carbon neutrality. 'This rare and valuable position must be safeguarded. If we become complacent, we risk losing this status and the associated benefits,' he warned. He also highlighted the state's climate vulnerabilities, including more frequent floods and coastal erosion, and stressed the need for urgent and strategic action. The Enactment includes 11 key parts: 1. Part I – Preliminary provisions including title and commencement; 2. Part II – Establishment of the SCAC as the highest state climate governance body; 3. Part III – Creation of the Sabah Climate Registry and Inventory Centre to manage data and carbon rights; 4. Part IV – Establishment of the Sabah Climate Fund for climate projects and administrative support; 5. Part V – Procedures for community consultation and benefit-sharing for carbon projects on customary land; 6. Part VI – Requirements and regulations for recognising and registering carbon activities; 7. Part VII – Regulations on carbon credits, levies and royalties; 8. Part VIII – Mandatory GHG emissions reporting and preparation of the state carbon budget; 9. Part IX – Enforcement provisions; 10. Part X – General provisions.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists raise alarm as crucial coastal habitats face growing threat: 'The results are in'
Salt marshes are more than just ecosystems that house various species and protect against floods and erosion — they are vital tools in carbon neutrality. Despite their significant impact on keeping the planet healthy, a new report from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and insurance company Aviva reveals that some salt marshes are suffering because of rising sea levels. As a part of this research and collaboration, data was presented from Aviva's "carbon flux tower," or solar-powered towers that constantly measure the carbon dioxide exchange occurring between the atmosphere and the salt marshes. The company's findings show that salt marshes are carbon "sinks," or capable of storing more carbon than they produce. "This high-frequency, real-time data reveals that saltmarshes are significant carbon sinks," the report says, "with the amount absorbed during the spring and summer outweighing what is released during the autumn and winter months." With sea levels rising — mostly due to extreme weather events, caused in part by human-induced climate change — some of the salt marshes are disappearing. According to an article by The Independent, "Experts warn that 85% of the U.K.'s saltmarshes … have been lost since the mid 19th century." Carbon removal, such as via carbon sinks, is crucial to keep our Earth healthy and livable. While carbon is produced naturally, an excess of it is caused in part by human activity, such as by burning dirty fuels, like methane gas. While natural carbon sinks exist, the effect of large-scale polluting gases is rising temperatures, making it harder for these carbon sinks — including forests and salt marshes — to thrive and do their job. "The results are in, and mud matters," said Tom Brook, an ocean conservation specialist at the WWF, per the press release. "Saltmarshes are powerful natural allies in the fight against climate change — storing carbon, protecting our coasts, and supporting rich biodiversity." In turn, the organizations' joint press release is calling for salt marshes to be added to the Greenhouse Gas Inventory to raise awareness and help the U.K. achieve net-zero carbon emissions. This move would be a major step in protecting these ecosystems, as further reporting would help garner funding and raise awareness for salt marshes. To do your part in protecting these vital carbon sinks, you can support organizations like WWF with climate-centered goals and educate yourself on critical climate issues like those affecting salt marshes. Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely Only in some areas No way I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
