SANDAKAN: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Sabah Forestry Department, representing the State Government, and Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan at the Forestry Department Headquarters Sandakan, on Monday.
The MoU focuses on research collaboration on the impacts of different approaches to forest restoration on enhancing wildlife habitats in Sabah.
Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) was represented by the Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan while Tokyo University of Agriculture was represented by Professor Dr. Hisashi Matsubayashi.
Established in 1891, Tokyo University of Agriculture is committed to promoting practical science and the advancement of ecological research in the tropics.
Prof Hisashi is no stranger to Sabah. He first came to the state in 1997, conducting his research on the lesser mouse deer in the Sepilok Forests.
Later in 2003, he continued with his research on wildlife in Deramakot Forest Reserve in central Sabah.
From his research, he has published a book entitled “Natural Salt-licks and Mammals in Deramakot” in 2014, together with Peter Lagan of Sabah Forestry Department.
He is now in Sabah on a study tour with a few of his undergraduate students, and also to discuss potential research under this MoU.
It is hoped that such collaboration will benefit both parties in securing data that contribute towards sustainable forest management.
