TANJUNG MANIS: Sarawak’s push to strengthen its green economy and environmental sustainability gained further momentum with the active participation of local communities in the Blue Carbon Project, spearheaded by the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (PUSAKA) in collaboration with Worldview Climate Solutions Sdn. Bhd. (WCS) in Kampung Paloh and Kampung Serdeng.

Held on 28 and 29 April, the community dialogue sessions focused on the conservation of a 10,300-hectare mangrove ecosystem, marking one of the largest blue carbon restoration initiatives in the region.

Beyond contributing to natural carbon dioxide absorption, the project also holds the potential to deliver long-term economic benefits to coastal communities.

PUSAKA’s Sustainable Resource Management Division
Assistant General Manager Hamzah Morshidi stressed that the success of the project is highly dependent on strong local support and engagement.

“The community is a key stakeholder. Their commitment will determine the long-term effectiveness of the project, especially in safeguarding mangrove ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources,” he said.

The programme was also supported by various government agencies, including the Tanjung Manis District Office, Sarawak Forestry Department, Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), and the Mukah Land and Survey Department.

Among the local leaders in attendance were the Penghulu of Kampung Paloh, several village chiefs, and longhouse heads from Telok Gelam and Berangan.

Project briefings were delivered by PUSAKA officer Nizam Abdullah, WCS representative Briggette Phillip, and SFC officer Winnie Akin.

The sessions outlined the role of blue carbon in combating climate change, protecting coastlines from erosion, and enhancing coastal biodiversity.

Residents were also introduced to the potential benefits of the initiative, including employment opportunities, capacity-building programmes, nature-based tourism, and infrastructure improvements.

The dialogue provided a platform for villagers to share feedback and suggestions to improve the project's implementation.

Project Manager Endela Tipot expressed gratitude for the community’s openness and hoped the partnership would continue in support of the project’s sustainability and mutual benefits.

The Blue Carbon Project aligns with Sarawak’s broader commitment to becoming a leader in the green economy in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, while promoting balanced and inclusive community development alongside ecological preservation. -UKASnews