LAHAD DATU: A nine-day scientific expedition involving 107 participants completed a detailed assessment of the Silam Coast Conservation Area (SCCA), establishing baseline data that will guide the long-term management and conservation of the expanded coastal region in Darvel Bay, here.
The survey from Nov 16-24, covered both the Silam and Tanjung Bangkuruan zones and marks a significant step toward formalising conservation strategies for an area that researchers say combines rare ecological features found in few other locations worldwide.
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The SCCA received a major expansion in 2024 when the Sabah Forestry Department approved the addition of three reserves, namely Silam Forest Reserve, Sepagaya Virgin Forest Reserve and the Pacific Hardwood area, to the existing protected zones of Tumunong Hallo Forest Reserve, Bangkuruan Mangrove Forest and the Tabun and Saranga Island Forest Reserves.
The project, which began in 2022 with technical assistance from the Sabah Environmental Trust, is funded by the Sabah Government under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12).
The expedition documented several significant findings, including the discovery of rare mangrove species not commonly found in other parts of Sabah.
Sepilok Research Centre's Mangrove Ecosystem Section Researcher Marrynah Matami said the team recorded three unique mangrove species, including Rhizophora stylosa or beach mangrove on Tabun Island.
"This species has been found mostly in Semporna. Another discovery is Aegiceras floridum, a species listed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Previously, we only found it in Kunak, specifically in the Coral Triangle. During our latest survey, we discovered a complete zone of this species on Tabun Island," she said.
Land conversion for oil palm plantations has been identified as a major concern for the Silam Coast Conservation Area (SCCA).
"We can see mangrove areas located very close to oil palm plantations. This issue is outlined in the Sabah Mangrove Action Plan 2024–2033. It remains unclear whether plantation boundaries are shifting or if there are unintentional encroachments," a conservation expert noted.
Despite these threats, the SCCA has potential to become a centre for research, rehabilitation, community education, and ecotourism.
"If the community can benefit from the area, for example through additional income, they will naturally feel more responsible for taking care of it," she added.
A recent survey recorded five species of non-flying small mammals, including the Near Threatened Kerawak or Giant Squirrel, which is notoriously difficult to spot and usually identified only by its distinctive call.
Universiti Teknologi Mara Sabah Branch Senior Lecturer Dr Siti Sarayati Abdul Mawah said the sighting was significant.
"Along the forest trail, there is a location frequently visited by the Kerawak that could serve as a key attraction for visitors," she said.
The area's combination of mountain, forest, and marine ecosystems has drawn attention as a potential ecotourism destination.
Innoprise Jungle Lodge Manager Shamsuddin Osman, who also manages Borneo Rainforest Lodge, highlighted the unique qualities of the SCCA.
"Compared to Danum Valley, Maliau Basin, and Imbak Canyon, the SCCA stands in a category of its own. Mount Silam rises as a steep sentinel overlooking the sea. Below it lies a stretch of coastline filled with mangroves, reefs, and marine life," he said.
The SCCA is also home to the rare twin blue ring phenomenon, a natural occurrence found in only a few places worldwide. Clear waters suitable for snorkeling and diving provide visitors an intimate meeting point between mountain, forest, and sea.
Shamsuddin emphasised that any ecotourism initiatives must involve local communities, who hold traditional knowledge about the area's resources.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Faculty of Tropical Senior Lecturer Dr Elia Godoong noted that the sea around Silam is near the Blue Ring site, enabling visitors to combine marine activities with inland rainforest experiences at Danum Valley.
She cautioned that introducing ecotourism without proper planning could disrupt local communities who rely on both land and sea.
"An in-depth analysis is needed to assess the side effects of ecotourism and potential future risks, such as mass tourism, which may be difficult to manage," she said.
UMS Faculty of Tropical Forestry Dr Anand Nainar said the survey established baseline data on climate and hydrology, although analysis is ongoing.
"Besides the sea, there are several small streams flowing down Silam's hill slopes. These streams are ephemeral, activated only during rainy seasons," he explained.
Seasonal patterns, shaped by monsoon rainfall, coastal winds, and tidal movement, create a dynamic hydrological landscape that influences species distribution and ecosystem productivity.
He added, “Silam Coast has its own microclimate that supports biodiversity in unique ways, from mangroves to coral habitats.
“Its water systems may be seasonal, but they are crucial for sustaining the ecosystem. By protecting these systems, we safeguard opportunities for research, ecotourism, and community development. Everyone has a part to play in preserving this natural heritage.”
The survey also noted signs of climate-related pressures, including irregular rainfall, rising temperatures, and coastal erosion. Despite the area's ecological value, researchers identified threats requiring immediate management, such as encroachment and littering.
Sabah Environmental Trust’s Mohd Nurazmeel said camera-trap assessments and field observations revealed traps, hunting sites, and other signs of intrusion.
"Close cooperation between conservation area management and surrounding communities is essential to maintain the sustainability of Silam," he said.
Findings from the expedition will form the core reference for the SCCA Management Plan, which aims to balance conservation with sustainable development.
The study emphasises integrated management involving the Yayasan Sabah Group, government agencies, research institutions, local communities, and the private sector.
The Yayasan Sabah Group will lead stewardship of the expanded conservation area, with ongoing research, monitoring, and community engagement planned to preserve the site's ecological integrity.
