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Kota Kinabalu: A recent 2024 resource and wildlife survey conducted at the Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA) in Kota Kinabalu, a notable increase in the population of elephants.

Sabah Environmental Trust (SET) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Rahimatsah Amat said, this is expected to enhance the appeal of the Maliau Basin as a tourist destination.

However, alongside concerns have been raised regarding the potential for human-wildlife conflicts in the future.

Dr. Rahimatsah emphasised the need to address these issues in the upcoming management plan of the MBCA to ensure sustainable coexistence of wildlife and human activities.

The survey also revealed signs of illegal entries by poachers and gaharu seekers in certain areas, prompting the recommendation for the establishment of a ranger post with essential facilities to facilitate long-term studies on the region’s biodiversity. 

Preliminary results from the survey indicated that most illegal activities were concentrated in Buffer Zone 2, with notable findings including abandoned camps and evidence of encroachment.

Noteworthy discoveries included new records for bird distribution, as well as the identification of mud volcanoes and updated distribution records for bantengs and elephants. 

Dr. Rahimatsah stressed the importance of further exploration, particularly in the southern region of the core conservation area, to monitor the diverse biodiversity and wildlife hotspots in the area.

The tourism development zone within the MBCA, endorsed in the Strategic Management Plan 2003-2012, presents significant opportunities for sustainable tourism growth. 

This designated area, situated along the Tawau-Sapulut main road and linked to Customs, Immigration Quarantines (CIQs) of Serudong and Pagalungan, holds promise for future tourism initiatives, alleviating the need for additional tourism facilities around the Maliau Basin Studies Centre in buffer zone 1.

With over 100 participants from various organisations participating in the 13-day survey, which concluded on May 26, the collaborative efforts aim to gather valuable data for the formulation of a new strategic management plan for the MBCA. 

The focus on elephant conservation and habitat preservation underscores the commitment to safeguarding the rich biodiversity of the Maliau Basin Conservation Area.