THE State Government is committed to preserving natural resources and sustainability of its biodiversity by allocating RM195.5 million, next year to implement various programmes and initiatives with emphasis on thematic environmental elements such as air, water, biodiversity and social aspects.
State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said RM144 million is allotted to Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) to manage and prioritise the preservation of natural resources and assets through climate change mitigation and adaptation measures.
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He said this is to ensure socio-economic growth is harmoniously balanced with environmental sustainability.
“Under 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), a ceiling of RM123.45 million has been approved for 30 development projects, comprising one continuation project and 29 new projects under the SFD.
“Following the approval of the Sabah Climate Change and Carbon Governance Enactment 2025, the SFD will continue its efforts to explore new potential revenue sources through domestic and international carbon markets.
“This reflects the Government’s commitment in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to curb global warming and achieve net-zero emissions by year 2050,” Masidi.
According to him, the Climate Change Unit of Sabah Forestry Department, with Sabah Climate Registration and Inventory Centre of Natural Resources Office will measure, manage and report carbon sequestration from Sabah’s forests.
“With this carbon inventory, Sabah will be better prepared to regulate carbon credit trading generated from forest conservation efforts.
“Proceeds from these carbon credits will be shared with local communities through benefit-sharing mechanisms, ensuring that Sabahans also enjoy the benefits of environmental conservation.
“Moreover, this centre will be the secretariat to the Sabah Climate Action Council that coordinates joint actions with the Federal Government under the Malaysian Climate Action Council,” he said.
Meanwhile, Masidi said the Sabah Government has approved a ceiling of RM14.78 million under 13MP for the Environmental Protection Department to implement eight development projects, comprising five continuation projects and three new projects.
Next year, he said RM8.89 million is allocated to continue the implementation of various initiatives towards mainstreaming environmental protection efforts.
“The Sabah Government remains committed to ensure wildlife protection and sustainability. Therefore, a ceiling of RM22.65 million has been approved under 13MP for the Sabah Wildlife Department to implement 13 development projects, comprising four continuation projects and nine new projects.
“A total of RM35.55 million is allocated next year for Operational Expenditure and to implement various awareness programmes, enforcement and wildlife protection activities, including efforts to effectively address human–wildlife conflict,” he said.
Masidi said the Sabah Government is also taking steps to explore biological resources through the development of biotechnology, which is one of Sabah’s potential sources of wealth.
Following this, he said RM2.08 million is allocated to the Sabah Biodiversity Centre next year for operational purposes and to implement development programs that will benefit the Industrial, medical and agricultural sectors.
