Ann: Investor Presentation Q1 2023, page-84

SFC: Similajau National Park picked for rewilding project due to its ecological significance, degradation
BY YUNUS YUSSOP ON JUNE 22, 2023, THURSDAY AT 7:00 AMSARAWAK
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OM staff posing for a photo with big smiles on their faces after joining the tree planting programme at SNP.
BINTULU (June 22): Similajau National Park (SNP) has been chosen for rewilding and habitat restoration due to its ecological significance and the urgent need to reverse degradation, said Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) chief executive officer Zolkipli Muhamad Aton.

With support from local communities, non-governmental organisations and corporate bodies, he added, SFC has secured substantial funding to carry out extensive tree planting operations.
“This support enables us to replant thousands of native tree species, which is essential for revitalising the park’s ecosystem and ensuring the survival of its unique species,” he said.
He disclosed this during the launching of the Rewilding of Sarawak’s Urban Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) through habitat restoration between OM Holdings Limited and SFC at Similajau National Park yesterday.

Zolkipli said under the initiative, in collaboration with OM Holdings Limited, they targeted to plant 10,000 native tree species within Similajau National Park.
“These trees will re-establish crucial wildlife habitats and contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration,” he added.
With the initial funding from OM Holdings Limited, he said they have successfully planted 750 saplings, representing a diverse range of species including durian, dabai, terap, engkalak, asam, cempedak, nangka, kepayang, keranji, jambu, kasai and rambutan and many more which are carefully selected for their ecological significance.

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone, especially the local communities who have embraced this initiative wholeheartedly. And today we will plant another 50 saplings of Bintangor, Gaharu and Ficus (Ara),” he said.
During the event, he announced that SFC has received an additional contribution of RM122,000 from OM Holdings Limited and this generous funding will enable them to plant another 2,528 saplings, expanding its restoration efforts further.
According to him, SFC also engaged the local communities for this project.

“By engaging local communities in the tree planting process, we empower them to be stewards of the land, fostering a sense of
ownership and long-term sustainability,” he said.
To foster greater awareness about the significance of Similajau National Park, he said SFC will install signboards throughout the park, providing educational information and promoting a deeper understanding of its ecological value.
“Furthermore, we will conduct workshops and outreach programmes to foster a sense of pride and connection within the communities, inspiring a generation of environmental stewards,” added Zolkipli.

SNP is a special place as a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural beauty in Bintulu.
“Its dense forests, vibrant ecosystems, and diverse wildlife make it a jewel in our conservation effort for Sarawak, especially for the people of Bintulu and its surroundings,” Zolkipli said.
Similajau National Park covers an area of approximately 22,230 acres, encompassing a variety of habitats, including pristine beaches, mangroves, and tropical rainforests.
The park’s unique geography offers a haven for countless species, both on land and in the surrounding waters. The park is home to 185 species of birds, among them hornbills, sea eagles, and also 24 species of mammals, including wild boars and macaques.
Similajau National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The park’s coastal areas, with their untouched sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, are home to diverse marine life, including the enormous estuarine or salt-water crocodiles, often seen basking in the sun. Dolphins, dugongs and green turtles also can occasionally be seen here.
“Similajau National Park truly showcases the intricate interconnectedness of land and sea, reminding us of the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems.
“Preservation and protection are at the heart of Similajau National Park’s conservation efforts. Its designation as a national park in 1978 was a pivotal moment, recognising the importance of safeguarding its natural wonders for future generations,” he pointed out.
However, he reminded that the challenges faced in preserving Similajau National Park are not to be underestimated as habitat degradation, encroachments, development in the surrounding area and unsustainable practices have posed threats to its delicate ecosystems.
He said the park is located very near to various heavy industries including palm oil plantations which could contribute to environmental pollution if not properly managed.
Zolkipli even cited a tragedy that occurred in the Black Forest of Germany.
He said this historical forest, known for its forestry and mining activities, has suffered from pollution, acid rain, and other detrimental effects.
“We certainly do not want Similajau National Park to face a similar fate. The Black Forest serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting our natural environment.
“It stands as a testament to the importance of proactive conservation efforts to safeguard our precious ecosystems.
“We must strive to protect not only Similajau National Park but other Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) from the threats of habitat degradation, pollution, and unsustainable practices,” he stressed.
He therefore hoped more organisations could provide funding for SFC’s ongoing research on biodiversity conservation.
He believed that with additional financial support, SFC can further enhance its conservation efforts and implement more comprehensive strategies to protect the TPAs.