30-04-2025
Yayasan Sabah staff bond over rainforest challenges at Imbak Canyon Family Day
Officers and staff who participated in the CEMD family day at Imbak Canyon.
KOTA KINABALU (April 30): Staff of Yayasan Sabah's Conservation, Environmental Management Division (CEMD) spent quality time engaging in a variety of activities – including testing their rainforest knowledge – during a two-day CEMD Family Day at the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA) recently.
Roofi Ahmat, a member of the organising committee, said the event was held at ICCA to provide participants with the opportunity to visit the Imbak Canyon Studies Centre and to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding pristine forest.
One of the key highlights of the day was the Orienteering Challenge, which tested participants' rainforest knowledge, navigation skills and survival instincts.
Teams were required to navigate through the dense jungle using maps and markers that identified key plant species, wildlife signs and natural landmarks.
This challenge not only added an educational element but also emphasised the importance of adapting to and respecting the wilderness – alongside the team-building benefits of various games.
Dr Waidi Sinun, Group Manager of CEMD, also attended the programme.
A participant, Deirdre Julis Kulip, said the hospitality and organisation of the event were commendable, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
'The programme was a great way to enhance awareness of the rainforest ecosystem while fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
'This was not my first visit to ICCA, but every visit brings a new perspective and experience.
'ICCA is truly a hidden gem in Sabah, offering a breathtaking rainforest landscape with towering dipterocarp trees, pristine rivers and an atmosphere of tranquillity.
'The well-maintained facilities at ICCA make it a comfortable yet immersive experience in the heart of nature,' she said.
She added, 'What stands out most is how the centre blends conservation, research and eco-tourism, providing a space that supports both scientific studies and environmental appreciation.
'The surrounding rainforest was alive with the sounds of wildlife, making the experience even more immersive.
'Witnessing the phenomenon of low clouds, particularly in the morning, was truly spectacular.
'It was a great opportunity to appreciate the importance of conservation and how places like ICCA contribute to preserving Sabah's natural heritage.'
Since 2010, Petronas has contributed over RM683 million to the conservation of ICCA – including RM77 million for the establishment of the Imbak Canyon Studies Centre, which was officially opened in 2019.
