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Borneo Post
01-06-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Reviving rivers: History and success of Sabah Tagal System
Tagal ecotourism history was created on 19th November 2006 when senior fisheries officers from Putrajaya collected money and passed to the chairman of Tagal Luanti, Jeprin Majangki. In the past, rivers in Sabah teemed with fish. However, with global population growth and rising demand for freshwater fish, many of these aquatic ecosystems began to suffer from overfishing and environmental degradation. In response, local communities across Sabah, as well as in other parts of the world — including Indonesia, Bangladesh and Malawi — developed traditional conservation practices to protect and replenish fish stocks in their rivers. In Sabah, these efforts eventually evolved into what is now recognized as the Sabah Tagal System, a fisheries co-management model combining indigenous wisdom with modern ecological principles with support of the fisheries department. Success of Tagal system in Kiulu. The Origins of Bombon and Tagal in Sabah The practice of Tagal/Bombon — derived from the Kadazan-Dusun language meaning 'prohibition' — originated among Sabah's indigenous communities. In Kota Belud and Kiulu, the local call it Bombon and Penampang they call it Tagal. The system involves a community-enforced fishing ban in designated river sections, allowing fish populations to regenerate. The term Bombon/Tagal signified the prohibition of fishing within the river sections. Jephrin Wong started the Sabah Fisheries Department model Tagal experiment in 2002. But in 2004 at Sabah first Tagal Seminar organized by Sabah Fisheries Department, the term Bombon and Tagal was formally renamed as Sabah Tagal System. The first efforts to implement the Bombon system dates back to the 1980s. In Kota Belud, native chief Hj Razali Goroh of Kampung Taginambur led the initiative in 1988 in response to declining fish stocks. In Kiulu, similar efforts were initiated by native chief Rampas bin Gumai in 1980s, with the system officially revived and launched in 1998 at Kampung Malangang Baru, Malangang Lama, Tambung and Namadan by then-Chief Minister Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, according to former district officer Tuaran Ariffin Gadait. In Penampang, the initiative was introduced in 1997 by Vitalis Galasun, a member of the Kampung Notoruss Village Development and Security Committee and a former Fisheries Department staff. These pioneering efforts laid the foundation for a broader, more structured approach to river conservation. Under the traditional system, strict rules were enforced by the community. Fishing was only permitted once a year, and violators faced penalties (known locally as sogit), which could include fines or livestock. The harvested fish were distributed among registered community members. Government Support and Scientific Innovation by Sabah Fisheries Department In 1999, after being appointed Head of the Inland Fisheries Division of the Sabah Fisheries Department, Jephrin Wong met with Hj Razali Goroh 2001, who suggested strengthening the Bombon system with institutional and material support. In 2002, Sabah Fisheries Department began to apply small funding from the state to finance the operation, research and development of the Tagal system project. In January 2002 Jephrin established a model Tagal site at the Fisheries Department's Babagon freshwater fisheries station, where scientific studies were conducted on fish behavior, spawning cycle and river ecosystems to get first-hand information on improving the Tagal system. By 2004, the population of this prized species mahseer (pelian or kelah) had rebounded, showcasing the effectiveness of blending traditional conservation with scientific methods. The research also confirmed that the endangered mahseer could be tamed and could recognize people, revealing significant potential for ecotourism Sabah Fisheries Department introducing Tagal Zoning System in 2004 Recognizing the need for broader implementation, Jephrin introduced the Tagal zoning system. The Sabah Fisheries Department launched the world's first Tagal Zoning System in late 2004. This new model divided river sections into three distinct zones: Red Zone: Strictly protected for conservation, ecotourism and catch-and-release fishing Yellow Zone: Seasonal fishing under regulated supervision Green Zone: Year-round fishing using traditional and eco-friendly practices This zoning system was first introduced at Babagon and quickly proved effective, benefiting local communities through conservation and sustainable income. The introduction of zoning system (red, yellow and green) at Tagal sites has triggered great attractions to many stakeholders in Malaysia and other countries. The Official Launch of the Sabah Tagal System by Sabah Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry in 2004 The first Tagal Seminar was held on November 25, 2004, led by the Sabah Fisheries Department and officiated by Datuk Rahim Ismail, then Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry. The term 'Sabah Tagal System' was officially adopted, with over 40 Tagal system community leaders and government representatives in attendance. Top river fish anglers and experts from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore as well as fishing magazine editor gave their comments on potential of catch and release fishing at Sabah Tagal system sites. An outreach event was subsequently held at Babagon, attended by NGOs led by Datuk Wilfred Lingham, former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment. Renowned figures from the angling community, including the editor of Angling Magazine (Kuala Lumpur) and Pak Amin from Fly Fishing Singapore, were also invited, helping popularize catch-and-release practices and fish spa tourism. Sabah Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Enactment 2003 The Tagal system (Community Fisheries Management Zone), has been incorporated into the Sabah Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Enactment 2003, placing it under the jurisdiction of the Sabah Fisheries Department Milestones and Expansion of Sabah Tagal system 2004: Penampang became the first district to implement the zoning-based modern Tagal system and pioneered ecotourism on catch-and-release fishing. 2006: Tagal Luanti in Ranau pioneered eco-tourism activities such as fish spas and fish feeding venture. 2005-2007: Tagal system expanded to Sarawak in 2005 and Pahang in 2007 2009-2011: The Tagal system expanded to marine environments, including artificial reef conservation in Kuala Penyu in 2009 and sea cucumber habitats on Jambongan Island in 2011. Notable recognitions on success of Tagal system: Sabah Most Outstanding Environmental Friendly Project Award 2005 to Sabah Fisheries Department by Sabah Ministry of Tourism & Environment. Tagal system Luanti, Ranau won River Care Award 2006 with the help of Sabah Fisheries Department. River Care Award 2006 to Tagal Luanti by Global Environment Centre, Kuala Lumpur. Special Achievement Award to Sabah Fisheries Department 2009 presented by the Chief Minister of Sabah. Economic and Cultural Impact Tagal system has become a significant source of sustainable river fish and income for rural communities. The local community can do ecotourism activities to create new source of income at red zone and harvest more fish (at yellow zone) during seasonal fishing and at green zone, whole-year fishing through sustainable fishing. Beginning 2005 the Babagon and Penampang Tagal sites began attracting both local and international anglers in 2005, generating revenue from guide services, entry fees and so on. In 2006, Tagal Luanti in Ranau officially launched its fish spa and fish feeding venture. During a visit on November 19, 2006, by 20 senior officers from the Putrajaya Fisheries Department led by Dr Sukarno Wagiman (Director of Conservation Division), they were willing to be the first paying visitors. This marked the formal birth of Tagal ecotourism in Sabah and Malaysia. From 2007 onwards, many other Tagal sites in Sabah and Sarawak follow suit. Jephrin Wong attended the first Tagal launching in Sarawak. It was held in Lawas on 12th August 2005. From Local Traditional to National Model Tagal system By 2025, the number of Tagal sites in Sabah had grown from just over 40 in 2002 to 642 across 23 districts, involving more than 232 rivers according to Sabah Fisheries Department. The success of the Sabah model inspired other Malaysian states. Sarawak adopted the system in August 2005, followed by Pahang in 2007. As of 2024, Sarawak has more than 140 active Tagal sites according to Sarawak Agriculture Department. The key difference between the old and modern Tagal system lies in structure and economic viability. The traditional approach allowed only one annual harvest with no tourism component. Other districts and other states in Malaysia are not keen to adopt the old Tagal system. The modern Tagal system introduced zoning, making conservation economically attractive and sustainable; a win-win to all stakeholders.. A Model for the World The Sabah Tagal System has been recognized as a pioneering example of successful Fisheries Co Management system. It demonstrates how indigenous knowledge, when supported by government policy and scientific research, can become a tool for sustainable development. The system has received praise from high-level figures, including former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who commended its success during a national exhibition in 2006. In conclusion, what began as a local conservation tradition has evolved into a dynamic and sustainable fisheries management model — one that restores rivers, empowers communities, and inspires the world. We say big thank you to the pioneers: Hj Razali Goroh, Rampas Gumpai and Vitalis Galasun and credit should be given to Sabah Fisheries Department headed by Jephrin Wong for introducing Tagal system site zonings (red, yellow and green) in 2004 which had attracted many stakeholders in Malaysia and worldwide and to Datuk Wilfred Lingham for his strong support since 2002.
New Straits Times
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Zizi Safira stamps her name on Sumandak hall of fame
RISING Sabahan singer Zizi Safira is often mistaken for Zizi Kirana (Nor Fazilah Mohamad Tahil) largely because they both hail from The Land Below The Wind. In a recent chat with the New Straits Times, 21-year-old Zizi said that even though many music lovers make that mistake, she admires her namesake who not only sings well but also acts and dances well too. AKADEMI FANTASIA "Truth be told, I hail from Tambunan and am of Kadazan-Dusun descent, while Zizi Kirana is from Semporna and she is of Bajau descent," said Zizi, who voted for her namesake during her days in 'Akademi Fantasia Season 7'. Zizi, the elder of two siblings, has been in the music industry for two years. She graduated with a business diploma in 2023 from Kosmopoint College, Kota Kinabalu. "I've always been surrounded by music as my family is musically inclined," said Zizi who lists Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Yuna, Jaclyn Victor, Marsha Londoh, Stacy Anam, Ayu Damit, Adira Suhaimi, Ernie Zakri and Aina Abdul as her favourite Malaysian singers. "Internationally, I'm a major fan of Celine Dion, Billie Eilish and Bruno Mars." BINTANG RTM Zizi won the 'Bintang RTM' crown in 2024. She subsequently participated in 'I Can See Your Voice Season 8'. "Last year I auditioned for Calpis Soda One In A Million (OIAM) but I did not make the grade." Nevertheless, Zizi is happy that one of her dear friends, Marygrace Jane Penserga won, and she has high hopes for Marygrace to become the "next big pop princess" from her home state. Zizi is a host, singer and dancer for the Information Department, and has been with them for almost a year. "I am a self-taught dancer, and I took singing lessons from a vocal coach in Tambunan," she said. Zizi has performed two Kadazan-Dusun songs namely 'Pinataam Ku' (2021) and 'Boros Ginavo' (2022). "My two Malay songs thus far are 'Hasrat Kerinduan' (2023) and 'Merana' (2024). I also have a new song in the pipeline, and I would love to release a full Malay album later," she said. Zizi has an interest in musical theatre and would be honoured to star in musicals produced by Istana Budaya or Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina's company Enfiniti Productions. "I am not that keen on acting, even though I'm a big fan of Malaysian dramas, and count Datuk Rosyam Nor as my all-time screen idol," said Zizi. Zizi is happy to be based in Malaysia, since she is close to her family and misses them easily. "But if I were to perform overseas, I would love to sing in Indonesia and record a duet with an Indonesian artiste such as Datuk Seri Rossa, who is my favourite regional diva." Zizi would love to sing in more languages, and right now she can sing in English, Malay and Kadazan-Dusun. She believes that being multi-lingual is a blessing for all Malaysians as this reflects the spirit of muhibbah and Bangsa Malaysia. 'MERANA' Zizi is busily promoting her latest single 'Merana' which is written and composed by Mas Dewangga and Jova Devito. It is an electronic dance music and pop song, and she hopes to record more songs in that genre. Zizi was active in singing contests during her schooldays and first performed on the big stage in 2018. "Reality talent shows have been a godsend, a great way to search for new talents, and without reality talent shows, Sabah's massive pool of talent would not have gone mainstream in Kuala Lumpur." Zizi has always followed reality talent shows since she was a kid but looking back, she prefers a lessening of the Short Messaging Servicevoting format. "There has to always be a balance between judges' marks and fans' votes because fans' votes often see truly talented singers getting eliminated early, especially those who are less gorgeous but more talented," she said.
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Foundation features ‘Sape Ambassadors' at Borneo Native Fest in KL
Volunteers gather for a group photo at the YPS booth, open throughout the Borneo Native Festival at the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur. KUCHING (May 23): Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak (YPS) is now at the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur for the three-day Borneo Native Festival (BNF), running until May 25. The foundation's participation at this cultural and heritage gathering marks its first appearance outside Sarawak, bringing together its 'Sape Ambassadors'. 'Our participation at this festival is very much awaited and the stage performance is our first away from home,' said a YPS spokesman in a statement today. 'The Sape Ambassadors have their followers in Sarawak and they have been well received for their unique stage presentation.' The 'Sape Ambassadors' have gained prominence in Sarawak after numerous public performances, including at the Borneo Cultural Festival, an international tourism event held in Sibu last year, and also their last concert at the closing of the annual Kaul Mukah Festival earlier this month. The 'Sape Ambassadors' are a group of talented musical youths, trained in sape, the traditional boat lute of the Orang Ulu. 'These 'Ambassadors' comprise youths representing all races in Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia, including representation from the Orang Asli community. 'They adorn their colourful traditional costumes playing the sape to the beat to local favourite songs in all languages in Malaysia including Mandarin, Kadazan-Dusun, Orang Asli and Tamil, besides the various Sarawak's indigenous languages. 'Their songs are local favourites, including oldies and other community hits like the Iban's 'Berkikis Bulu Betis', Kadazan-Dusun's 'Anak Kampung' and the Mandarin version of 'Mei Lan Wo Ai Ni'. 'This makes for a unique musical presentation; hence, the adoption of the stage theme 'Rhythm of Unity',' the spokesman added. Backed-up by Amir Hamzah from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), the 'Sape Ambassadors' stand as one of YPS signature projects in its nationwide 'Unity in Diversity' promotion. These Ambassadors are performing at the BNF in KL's Central Market today, from 4pm to 5pm. The spokesman added: 'YPS will have a booth located at the festival site where a mini exhibition featuring YPS's vision and mission and its activity promotions. 'We also invite everyone to a special 'Jum Kelaka Sarawak' (Let's Speak Sarawak) session, taking place at the booth throughout the festival where you can polish up your colloquial Sarawak dialects.' Entry to the festival is free. Borneo Native Festival Sape Ambassadors Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak YPS
Borneo Post
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
New attractions set to attract more visitors to 3rd Sarawak Tourism Federation Gawai Dayak Open House, says Rentap
Rentap (seated centre) is seen during a photocall. Audry is seated at third left. KUCHING (May 14): The Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) Gawai Dayak Open House is set to return on June 7 at Rumah Veriland, Engkeranji, Layar, Betong. Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said there will be new attractions aimed at drawing even more visitors this year. He said the third instalment of the open house will embody the spirit of unity, gratitude, and cultural pride of the Dayak community, with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts as well as the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development. 'We are thrilled to introduce two new features in the event: glamping accommodations and a special Gawai-Kaamatan Concert. 'We hope these additions will offer visitors a more immersive cultural experience,' said Rentap. The glamping accommodations are designed for those seeking comfort while staying close to nature, blending modern convenience with the rustic charm of the event's rural setting. Meanwhile, the Gawai-Kaamatan Concert will celebrate the shared heritage of the Dayak and Kadazan-Dusun communities, featuring cultural performances from both Sarawak and Sabah to symbolise unity across regions and showcasing the rich traditions of Borneo's indigenous peoples. STF president Audry Wan Ullok said the new additions seek to promote rural tourism with a modern a twist, while further highlighting the diversity of Borneo's indigenous traditions. 'Throughout the open house, visitors will be treated to vibrant cultural dances, traditional games, local food, handicraft exhibitions, and more — all rooted in authenticity and community spirit,' she said. Audry said the event has been positively received not only locally but also internationally. 'In 2023, the total number of guests who registered was 153, with 10 participants being international visitors from Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, China, United States, and Australia. 'In 2024, attendance rose to 239 guests, with 18 international participants from countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Japan, China, Taiwan, the United States, and Australia,' she stated. For more information or to register for tour packages, head to
The Star
08-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Pasir Gudang youth centre opens soon
The new Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre Pasir Gudang is expected to officially open on May 24. Mayor: Recreational hub will have go-kart track, food trucks, meeting facilities PASIR Gudang residents have been urged to fully utilise the facilities at the soon-to-be-launched Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre (TMIYC) and to maintain it as a shared community asset. Pasir Gudang mayor Datuk Mustaffa Kamal Shamsudin said the public must take ownership of the centre, built using taxpayers' money, and protect it from acts of vandalism. 'TMIYC Pasir Gudang is not just a recreational hub. It will also serve as a meeting place for discussions between government and private agencies. 'We expect to officially open the centre on May 24. 'It will have facilities such as a go-kart track, and food trucks,' he said during Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG) full council meeting at Menara Aqabah. Mustaffa also said that residents should keep the facilities, including the toilets, clean, and refrain from littering. He urged those wishing to organise events at the centre to coordinate with MBPG to avoid scheduling conflicts. He added that the TMIYC would benefit residents living in flats, where space for recreational activities was limited. Meanwhile, MBPG Masai councillor and Pasir Gudang Tourism Association chairman Madyasir Ahmad Basir said efforts were underway to revitalise the local tourism sector. 'Among our unique assets are the Pasar Muafakat Sabah and Pasar Borneo; this is the only parliamentary constituency that hosts both markets,' he said. Madyasir said Pasar Muafakat Sabah, in particular, needed revitalisation through regular events. It also needed to diversify the products sold, beyond food offerings primarily from the Suluk community. He proposed developing it into a handicraft centre, promoting Sabah's diverse ethnic cultures such as the Kadazan-Dusun and Bugis, to attract more visitors. 'Many shops are operating more like general stores rather than selling authentic Sabah handicrafts. We must work with Tourism Johor to realise this vision,' he added. Meanwhile, MBPG Pasir Putih councillor Zainon Baharum raised several safety and maintenance concerns during the meeting. She highlighted the overgrown trees along the main road of Pasir Putih from the traffic lights to the children's playground at Jalan Selayang 10, where branches were touching electrical cables. 'This poses a serious risk, especially during storms. I urge the council to carry out regular tree pruning, even if it means trimming two or three trees a day,' she said. Zainon expressed concern too over the blocked drainage system along Jalan Selayang 10, noting that the resulting stagnant water could create mosquito breeding sites and elevate the risk of dengue outbreaks. She called for immediate cleaning and maintenance to address the issue. She also called on MBPG's Engineering Department to inspect the failing retaining walls of a major drain along Jalan Selasih 26, Taman Pasir Putih, cautioning that further collapse could compromise soil stability in the area. Zainon brought up the issue of lack of drain covers along Jalan Sagai near an industrial area, which she pointed out was a public safety hazard. 'This is a risk to pedestrians and motorists alike. It needs urgent attention,' she stressed.
