Kota Kinabalu: Getting the approval of indigenous communities before moving forward with any projects is essential to protect their rights, culture, and long-term well-being. 

This was one of the key messages emphasised during the Borneo Rainforest Law Conference’s panel on indigenous people and resource extraction, shedding light on the shared challenges experienced by indigenous communities worldwide. 

Adrian Lasimbang, President of Pertubuhan Suara Anak Sabah, said that free, prior, and informed consent is a well-recognised method for considering the concerns of indigenous communities.

“It is evident that all development projects should incorporate informed consent requirements.