SERIAN: The Sarawak Forestry Department has been urged to open the Sabal Forest Reserve to sports clubs and associations for activities such as drone racing, mountain biking, nature camping and glamping.
Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat said his ministry is also exploring the possibility of organising similar activities in other forest reserves across Sarawak.
“Sarawak is committed to enhancing the economic benefits of eco-tourism and forestry sectors through sustainable conservation and management, aligned with the Sarawak Maju 2030 vision.
“Besides attracting visitors from outside the state, we aim to cultivate a culture of domestic tourism among local communities, promoting healthy outdoor activities while appreciating the importance of forest biodiversity.
“This initiative will also contribute to the local economy, ensuring that we reap ‘golden opportunities in our own backyard,’” he said.
He said this at the Open Day of the Sabal Forest Landscape Restoration Centre and the Scientific Expedition at the Sabal Forest Reserve here, today (Nov 23).
Ripin lauded the open day concept organised by the department, expressing strong support for it to be included as an annual event in the department’s calendar.
On the scientific expedition, which saw the participation of 108 individuals, including 45 department officers and 63 Unimas officers, he highlighted its potential to foster collaboration between the department and the local community.
“This collaboration will help promote, develop, and unlock business opportunities centred on the Sabal Forest Reserve,” he said.
Ripin added that local villagers could benefit from additional income through roles such as tour guides, homestay operators, food vendors, handicraft sellers, and cultural promotion initiatives.
“I am confident that the Sabal Forest Reserve holds immense conservation and eco-tourism potential. However, effective management requires accurate and comprehensive information.
“This scientific expedition has yielded valuable insights, and I hope these findings will be utilised to improve wildlife management within the reserve.
“Various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sectors, and especially local communities, can benefit from this research, whether for conservation, education, or eco-tourism purposes,” he said.
