SEVENTEEN new biodiversity species in the state have been recorded through the Research for Intensified Management of Bio-Rich Areas (RIMBA) Sarawak programme.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the new species consist of eight Begonia tree species, three insect species, one reptile species, one bird species and four crab species.
“The RIMBA Sarawak is a research programme carried out by the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) that aims to sustainably preserve, protect and manage biodiversity resources,” he said.
Awang Tengah, who is also the Second Minister of Natural Resource and Urban Development, was delivering his ministerial winding-up speech in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
At the same time, he said the programme is also an international platform for the exchange of knowledge, expertise and technology in biodiversity conservation and scientific research.
On another note, he said the Sarawak government through the Forest Department of Sarawak (FDA) and SFC have implemented various initiatives to improve the socio-economic condition of communities living in areas close to Permanent Forest Estates (PFEs) and Totally Protected Areas (TPAs).
“Among the projects and programmes that have been carried out are the construction of a gravity water supply system in Long Kerong, Baram and Rumah Manggat Batang Ai; and the construction of seven suspension bridges in several areas in Sri Aman, Baram, Limbang and Lawas,” he said.
In addition, he said the projects and programmes include supplying building materials for house roofs for Segah Selaan Ulu Baram Community from Long Murung, Long Lamam and Ba’ Sebateu); developing a forestry system in 15 selected locations; and cash fish farming project for the Rh Manggat and Rh George, Batang Ai, Sri Aman.
“Besides that, it also includes the organisation of non-timber forest products (NTFP) expo and Beyond Timber Carnival (BTC) every year; organisation of carpentry courses, furniture making, outboard engine repair, fiberglass boat making and electrical wiring courses as well as NTFP creative craft advanced course for communities in various locations throughout Sarawak,” he said.
The projects and programmes carried out are able to increase income and provide basic facilities to residents living near TPA and PFE in line with the aspirations of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2023 and at the same time will have a positive impact on the preservation of biological treasures in Sarawak, he added.
