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New Straits Times
a day ago
- General
- New Straits Times
Kiau Gap site stays open for families to remember Sabah earthquake victims
RANAU: The Kiau Gap View site, which honours the 18 lives lost during the June 5, 2015, earthquake, will remain open to families wishing to visit and hold private moments of remembrance. Sabah Parks Board of Trustees chairman Peter Lintar announced that no more formal memorial services will be held at the Kiau Gap site in the coming years. "You are not alone. "The memory of your loved ones lives on in our prayers and collective spirit," he said during the 10th Memorial Service held at the site, where a monument was erected in 2016 to honour the victims. He also said that Sabah Parks had consistently organised annual memorials since 2016 and expressed gratitude to all who have attended especially the families of the victims. The victims, including spirited schoolchildren from Singapore, were remembered as individuals taken too soon in a place meant to symbolise the beauty of nature. Their families were commended for their enduring resilience. During the ceremony, family members lit candles at exactly 7.15am the time the earthquake struck ten years ago and later laid flowers at the monument. "This is a day of reflection, remembrance, and strength for all of us. Mount Kinabalu, so majestic, became the backdrop to a tragedy that claimed 18 beloved lives. "The scars of that day remain deeply etched in the hearts of families, friends, the people of Sabah and Malaysia, as well as the international community who also felt its impact. "To those who lost loved ones, we understand that the pain never truly goes away. Ten years may heal physical wounds, but the longing for those we lost endures. "Thank you for the strength and courage you have shown over the years," he added. The memorial also paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of mountain guides, porters, rescue personnel, volunteers, and local villagers who played critical roles in the search and rescue operations. Since the tragedy, various initiatives have been implemented to improve safety and preparedness on the mountain. These include the formation of the Mountain Search and Rescue (MoSAR) unit, regular rescue simulation exercises, enhanced standard operating procedures (SOPs), better emergency protocols, and upgraded training and assessments for mountain guides. Public awareness campaigns have also been strengthened to improve disaster readiness. "We have learned the importance of humility in the face of nature's power and the need for efficient early warning systems and safe climbing practices." Among those present were Sabah Parks director Dr Maklarin Lakim; Sabah Fire and Rescue chief Mohd Pisar Aziz; Ranau district officer Tinus Manggam; Archbishop Datuk John Wong; and Ranau police representative Deputy Superintendent Ediansha Endal.
New Straits Times
a day ago
- General
- New Straits Times
Sabah Parks boosts emergency training, seismic monitoring
KOTA KINABALU: Safety improvements have been implemented on Mount Kinabalu following the 6.0-magnitude earthquake that claimed 18 lives a decade ago. Sabah Parks deputy director of operations, privatisation and development Maipol Spait said these include new high-altitude climbing training, enhanced emergency response procedures and formalising the role of mountain guides as first responders. Earlier this year, the agency signed a memorandum of agreement with the Fire and Rescue Department to boost rescue coordination. Disaster simulation training, introduced in 2016, continues to involve mountain guides, porters and government agencies. Participants are trained in search and rescue, rope rescues, first response techniques, how to use automated external defibrillators and Glasgow Coma Scale assessments. "Upcoming drills will focus on search-and-rescue responses under extreme weather conditions," Maipol told the New Straits Times. "The earthquake gave us a profound and valuable experience, especially in strengthening our standard operating procedures for climbing safety on Mount Kinabalu." Real-time seismic monitoring was also introduced, with detectors installed on Mount Kinabalu and in Kundasang. Sabah Parks works with the Sabah Minerals and Geoscience Department to monitor seismic activity. The state rebuilt accommodation facilities in Panalaban with seismic risks in mind and rerouted the Ranau summit trail to avoid high-risk zones. Stairs were added to vulnerable sections. Two alternative trails, Kota Belud and Ranau, were built to support rescue missions. While safety has been a key focus, cultural and community values remain central to Sabah Parks' mission. The Council of Indigenous Customs and Traditions of Mount Kinabalu was reactivated to advise on traditional beliefs and taboos linked to the mountain. "We apply best management practices to involve local people in programmes that strengthen their spiritual and economic ties to the mountain," said Maipol, noting that many in the community work as guides or porters. A quake gallery was established in Kinabalu Park to educate visitors and preserve the memory of the disaster. Maipol said this year's earthquake commemoration ceremony would feature a disaster awareness and safety talk. The annual ceremony, held at the Kiau View platform in Kinabalu Park, involves a moment of silence and a flower laying ritual at a monument made from rocks dislodged during the quake. This year, experts will speak on seismic activity and disaster preparedness for the 1,000 visitors and tourists expected at the event. The event is organised by Sabah Parks, the Ranau District Office and Mesilau Volunteers. Last year, Mount Kinabalu recorded 48,844 climbers, up from 47,212 in 2022, reflecting a return of confidence among trekkers and tourists.
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Officers trained to fight wildlife trafficking in Sabah
The participants of the Comprehensive Wildlife Crime Investigation and Prosecution Workshop. KOTA KINABALU (June 3): Sabah Parks, in collaboration with Justice for Wildlife Malaysia and Kota Kinabalu Working Group on Environment (KKCWGE), has successfully concluded a specialised four-day workshop from May 20 to 23, focused on wildlife crime investigation and prosecution techniques. The comprehensive training programme brought together law enforcement officers and legal professionals to strengthen Sabah's capacity in combating illegal wildlife trade. This workshop was part of the Justice for Wildlife Malaysia's ongoing efforts to conduct a sensitization program for effective prosecution under the SHIELD (Sabah Harmonized Intelligence, Enforcement, and Legal Defense Against Wildlife Crimes) initiatives. The workshop, 'Bengkel Berfokus Siasatan dan Pendakwaan Jenayah Hidupan Liar Taman-Taman Sabah,' covered critical aspects of wildlife crime enforcement including Malaysia's criminal justice system, digital evidence management from social media platforms, comprehensive search and seizure operations, specialised wildlife evidence handling procedures, and courtroom testimony preparation for investigating officers. The programme emphasised practical application through live demonstrations and group exercises. Participants engaged in realistic scenarios covering vehicle searches, premises inspections, arrest procedures, body searches, and evidence collection protocols. The training culminated with a mock trial session conducted at the Kota Kinabalu Court Complex under the supervision of judge Ferhanshah Farene, a deputy registrar of the High Court of Kota Kinabalu, providing participants with authentic courtroom experience. A distinguished team delivered the workshop for law enforcement professionals, including ASP Tobias Anthony Banding, DSP Ahmad Fauzi bin Ibrahim, DSP Tan Hiap Wah, JWM's legal advisor Dato' Rosli, and Sabah Wildlife Department's head of prosecution, Primus Lambut. This diverse expertise ensured comprehensive coverage of operational and legal aspects of wildlife crime investigation. This initiative represents a significant advancement in Sabah's wildlife conservation efforts, directly addressing the critical need for specialised law enforcement capabilities in combating wildlife trafficking. The training supports Malaysia's commitment to international conservation agreements and strengthens its ability to protect its unique biodiversity heritage. The collaboration between Sabah Parks, Justice for Wildlife Malaysia and Kota Kinabalu Court Working Group on Environment exemplifies the importance of strategic partnerships in wildlife protection. By combining government enforcement capabilities with specialised NGO expertise, the programme creates a more robust and effective response to wildlife crime threats. Participants completed the programme with enhanced capabilities in evidence collection, case preparation, digital evidence management, and court presentation, essential skills for successful wildlife crime prosecutions. The knowledge and techniques acquired will immediately apply to ongoing conservation enforcement efforts across Sabah's protected areas and beyond. The workshop's success demonstrates Sabah's commitment to remaining at the forefront of wildlife crime prevention and prosecution, ensuring that those who threaten the state's precious wildlife resources face the full force of the law.
Daily Express
27-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Research pact with Russians
Published on: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Published on: Tue, May 27, 2025 By: Clarence Dol Text Size: MoU signing between Sabah Parks and delegation from Russia. Kundasang: Two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) were signed between Sabah Parks Trustees Board and two entities from the Russian Federation, here, on Saturday. The MoUs aim to strengthen cooperation in the fields of academic research, sustainable development, and sustainable management of natural areas involving aspects of geoscience, mineral resources, climate change and sustainable tourism. Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Abidin Madingkir said the signing would form the basis for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and the implementation of collaborative projects between the two parties. Sabah Parks Board of Trustees was represented by Chairman of the Sabah Parks Trustees Board, Peter Lintar and the Director of Sabah Parks, Dr Maklarin Bin Lakim. The delegation from Russia was represented by the Executive Director of The Committee of The Republic of Bashkortostan for Unesco, and Co-Chairholder at The International Research and Educational Centre 'Geoparks and Territories of Sustainable Development', UFA University of Science and Technology, Dr. Renata Razifovna Lukmanova; and Chairholder at the same center, and Doctor of Geology and Mineralogy at The UFA University of Science and Technology, Professor Larisa Nikolaevna Belan. Advertisement Also participating in the event was a special guest, Director of Bashkiria National Park and The Bashkiria Unesco Biosphere Reserve, Representing The Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology of The Russian Federation, Vladimir Kuznetsov. Abidin welcomed the MoU and said that the presence of the delegation from Russia here really strengthens the bridge of international cooperation in sustainable development and science diplomacy. 'Sabah is very fortunate to have natural wealth, extraordinary biodiversity, and unparalleled cultural diversity. All these elements make Sabah not only a superior tourism destination, but also a reference in holistic regional development through the Geopark approach based on conservation, education and community development. 'This Geopark approach is very much in line with the State Government's development policy which emphasizes sustainable development, rural community empowerment, and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. 'What we are witnessing today is a manifestation of success resulting from close and continuous cooperation between various parties which include government agencies, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and strategic partners from home and abroad,' he said. Abidin, who is also Paginatan Assemblyman, said this while representing the Deputy Chief Minister and Kundasang Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Joachim Gunsalam in opening the Sambutan Tamu Geopark 2025 here on Saturday. The organisation of this Tamu, he said, not only celebrates the diversity of community heritage, but also presents an integrated approach to sustainable development based on geoparks. 'The Tamu Geopark held today brought together various levels of society, including agency representatives, Geopark partners and communities from across the Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark. 'The organisation of this programme highlighted various important elements such as exhibitions by government and private agencies, local products and handicrafts, traditional clothing, as well as food exhibition featuring the uniqueness and diversity of traditional dishes from various districts in Sabah. 'Not to be missed is the traditional cooking competition which is a medium to introduce local food culture to the community and external visitors,' he said. Abidin added that this approach is not just about showcasing the results of community efforts, but reflects how the Geopark concept can encompass various sectors such as tourism, community economy, education and conservation simultaneously. Meanwhile, he said, through the State Tourism Development Strategic Plan and planning under the National Tourism Policy, initiatives such as the Kinabalu Unesco Global Geopark (KUGGp) can be used as an important platform to strengthen inclusive and resilient community-based tourism. 'In fact, the efforts of the State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment in supporting international recognition such as the Unesco Global Geopark are seen in line with the National Geopark Development Policy which is currently being actively developed by the Federal Government. 'This policy aims to provide a more structured, cross-ministerial Geopark management framework, as well as emphasising the balance between the conservation of geological, cultural and biodiversity heritage with local socio-economic progress. 'We believe that the success of a Geopark does not only depend on international recognition, but also on the extent of the involvement and awareness of the local community towards the values of the heritage they possess,' he said. Therefore, he said, the Tamu Geopark is one of the most effective approaches to bring the community closer to the values of the Geopark through direct cultural, economic and educational activities. Also present were State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, Ranau District Officer Tinus Manggam, Sabah Parks Board of Trustees Member Gabriel Sinit, and others. * 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
The Star
23-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Geoparks key to sustainable growth, says Liew
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew (centre) joins others in cutting a Mt Kinabalu-shaped cake to mark the second anniversary of the Declaration of Kinabalu Geopark as a UNESCO Global Geopark in Kota Kinabalu on Thursday (May 22). KOTA KINABALU: Geoparks are more than just scenic destinations as they are also vital platforms for sustainable development, says Datuk Seri Christina Liew. The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister also said geoparks are sites for geological heritage conservation, education, and community-driven economic growth. 'Geoparks show that conservation and economic progress can go hand in hand. "They empower local communities, raise public awareness of natural heritage, and support sustainable tourism,' she said at the launch of the Malaysia Geopark Network Conference 2025 here on Thursday (May 22). She added that in addition to offering stunning landscapes, geoparks also give visitors the chance to learn about the planet's history, local culture, and the importance of sustainability. Liew noted that Malaysia has made significant progress in this area, starting with Langkawi's designation as South-East Asia's first Unesco Global Geopark in 2007. With Kinabalu Geopark gaining global recognition in 2023, Malaysia now has 12 national geoparks rich in geological, biological and cultural value, she said. 'This effort strengthens Malaysia's role on the global stage in geoheritage preservation and supports sustainable development at both national and international levels,' she said. Given Malaysia's rich geology, culture and ecosystems, Liew said, the country holds strong potential for more geopark designations. She called on all stakeholders to continue supporting effective geopark management, urging local communities to become ambassadors for their respective sites and encouraging the private sector to develop tourism responsibly. However, she acknowledged several challenges, including limited resources, low public awareness and weak coordination among stakeholders. Describing the conference as timely, Liew said it provided a crucial space for experts to exchange ideas, build networks and forge a stronger path forward. 'That is why Sabah Parks organised this conference … to bring together stakeholders from across the country to share insights and experiences in managing geopark areas,' she said. Commending Sabah Parks and the Malaysia Geopark Network for hosting the event, she reiterated Sabah's commitment to becoming a leader in geoconservation.
