26-06-2025
Langom research station a plus for conservation
Published on: Thursday, June 26, 2025
Published on: Thu, Jun 26, 2025 Text Size: Langom Control Centre and Research Station. LAHAD DATU: The newly-opened Langom Control Centre and Research Station at the Danum Valley Conservation Area stands as testament to Sabah's commitment to biodiversity conservation and research excellence. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said this initiative, spearheaded by Yayasan Sabah in collaboration with the State Forestry Department, aligns perfectly with creating a conducive research environment while ensuring sustainable forest management. 'I wish to reiterate the State Government's full support to conservation and research efforts such as this,' Hajiji said during the facility's opening ceremony, with his speech delivered by Deputy Chief Minister cum Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya. Hajiji expressed confidence that with multi-stakeholder support, including from the Federal Government, conservation areas like Danum Valley and the entire DaMaI (Danum Valley, Maliau Basin and Imbak Canyon) Rainforest Landscape would continue serving as global biodiversity treasures while functioning as premier research, education and conservation centres. The RM5.6 million facility was funded by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability under the 12th Malaysia Plan, supporting the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan's environmental conservation and sustainable development objectives. 'This initiative reflects the State Government's commitment to balance economic development with conservation of natural resources for the long-term prosperity of the people and future generations,' Hajiji said. He praised Yayasan Sabah for its outstanding stewardship of Danum Valley and similar conservation areas, noting that the organisation has elevated Sabah's international profile as a model of transparent and visionary conservation management. Strategically positioned within the Ulu Segama-Malua Forest Reserve between the Netherlands' Face The Future project site (INFAPRO) and the Danum Valley Studies Centre, the research station operates under the Sabah Forestry Department's Management Committee with Universiti Malaysia Sabah involvement. Hajiji pointed out the significance of the location, saying the surrounding restored forest demonstrates successful conservation efforts. 'Many are unaware that the forest we passed through today is a restored forest, the result of years of dedicated effort. This proves that forest restoration can succeed with vision and commitment,' he said. The facility will also serve educational purposes, supporting environmental programs conducted by the Sabah Nature Club, which has adopted several Lahad Datu schools under Yayasan Sabah Group supervision. Looking ahead, Hajiji called for increased Federal Government support, particularly through the National Conservation Trust Fund for Natural Resources and the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan. He reaffirmed Sabah's commitment to implementing green sustainability development programs that prioritise responsible natural resource management while ensuring environmental protection, social well-being and economic growth for future generations. * 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.
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