Musa: Sabah views conservation work at lower Kinabatangan river seriously

SANDAKAN: The Sabah State Government views conservation work at the Lower Kinabatangan River seriously, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

“Through our programmes, we aim to establish partnership that benefit major landowners and local communities, as well as wildlife and the environment.

“An atmosphere of mutual cooperation is necessary to ensure that business opportunities are translated into conservation benefits,” he said at the East Malaysia Planters Association (EMPA) Seminar on Synergizing Sustainability and Profitability in Oil Palm Plantations – Challenges and Opportunities, here yesterday.

His speech was read by Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Raymond Tan Shu Kiah.

Musa said the varied scenery, wildlife, culture and history of Sabah were among its most important resources, and balanced development was critical for future growth.

He said the task of conservation and environmental management was not the responsibility, or even within the capability, of just one stakeholder or organisation.

“It requires all to work together, as the Kinabatangan River area is economically important. Forestry, fisheries, agriculture and tourism are revenue earners for Sabah.

“Case studies should be developed to show how partnerships can work between tourism, agriculture, wildlife and the other interest groups present in the lower Kinabatangan,” he said.  — Bernama

Source: Borneo Post