KUCHING: Sarawak's efforts to preserve orangutan habitats have received strong support from the international community, particularly Japan.

Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the Sarawak State Coordinator for the Malaysia–Japan Association, Kazue Sakai has for more than 40 years conveyed conservation messages through orangutan-themed artwork while also bringing Japanese students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to Sarawak to plant trees and support conservation initiatives.

"Such collaboration not only raises global awareness but also promotes Sarawak as a research and ecotourism destination," he said during the Orangutan Oil Painting Presentation Ceremony at Wisma Sumber Alam, here on Thursday.

He added that the orangutan population in Sarawak is currently estimated at around 2,500, significantly smaller compared to Sabah and Kalimantan.

However, conservation programmes at the Semenggoh Nature Reserve have shown positive results with many orangutan births recorded.

“The approach at Semenggoh is unique as orangutans are allowed to live freely without human intervention, unlike other conservation centres,” he said.

Datuk Len stressed that the preservation of Sarawak’s biodiversity must continue through the involvement of local communities, government agencies, and international partners to ensure that flora and fauna remain protected for future generations. -UKASnews