Kota Kinabalu: The Yayasan Sabah Group will conduct a comprehensive scientific survey of the Silam Coast Conservation Area (SCCA) from the Nov 16 to 24, focusing on the area’s recent extensions.
The survey aims to assist in the upcoming SCCA Strategic Management Plan, a key initiative that will guide the area’s long-term conservation, research, and eco-tourism development.
It would include collecting detailed scientific data on biodiversity, flora and fauna diversity, geology, hydrology, water quality, and other environmental parameters. It will also identify suitable research activities for Silam and Bangkuruan, and assess Silam’s potential as a premier eco-tourism destination in Sabah.
Established in 2003, the Silam Coast Conservation Area (SCCA) in Lahad Datu, Sabah, has been managed by Yayasan Sabah Group with continuous support from the Sabah Forestry Department.
In 2009, the inclusion of the Tumunong Hallo Forest Reserve and Bangkuruan Mangrove Forest Reserve, along with Pulau Saranga and Pulau Tabun, led to the formal establishment of SCCA as a protected conservation area.
In 2024, SCCA was further expanded to include the Silam Forest Reserve, Sepagaya Virgin Jungle Reserve, and adjacent YSG properties.
This expansion enhances habitat connectivity and strengthens SCCA’s role in biodiversity conservation, scientific research, environmental education, and nature-based recreation.
Strategically located near Lahad Datu and bordering Darvel Bay, part of the globally significant Sulu–Sulawesi Eco-region, SCCA hosts an impressive range of flora and fauna. Past scientific expeditions have recorded over 60 species of birds, 24 species of mammals, 60 species of mangrove flora, and 147 species of fish.
The area also encompasses the ancient Darvel Bay Ophiolite Complex, one of Sabah’s oldest geological formations.
Facilities in SCCA include staff quarters, researchers’ accommodations, an Information and Reception Centre funded by SHELL, jungle trails, gazebos, picnic areas, observation huts, and a jetty, making it ideal for research, education, and eco-tourism activities.
The 2015 SCCA Scientific Expedition, from May 10 to 20, gathered over 50 researchers from key agencies, including the Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Wildlife Department, WWF-Malaysia, Sabah Parks, and several universities.
The expedition generated valuable data on biodiversity, geology, forest and coral restoration, and eco-tourism potential, forming the foundation for SCCA’s strategic management initiatives.
Following the expedition, a scientific seminar was held on Aug 20 2015, at Menara Tun Mustapha, where 19 research papers were presented. A stakeholders Forum was held in April 2016, bringing together local authorities, the private sector, and nearby communities to engage in SCCA’s conservation efforts.
Both activities were supported by SHELL, reflecting the success of public–private collaboration in environmental conservation.
The upcoming 2025 SCCA Scientific Survey represents a significant step in advancing Yayasan Sabah Group’s conservation mission.
By collecting comprehensive scientific data and engaging relevant stakeholders, Yayasan Sabah Group reaffirms its commitment to protecting Sabah’s biodiversity and ensuring the sustainable management of its natural heritage for future generations.
