LUNDU: The Forest Department Sarawak has set a goal to have the Gunung Pueh recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve by the year 2025.
Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang said that numerous benefits could be gained from this recognition including reducing the loss of biological diversity, improving the living standards of local residents, and enhancing the socio-economic and cultural status through environmental conservation efforts.
Billy said this when officiating at the Man and The Biosphere (MAB) and Heart of Borneo (HOB) promotion programme at Lundu Community Hall recently.
Furthermore, he stressed that the Biosphere Reserve site could serve as a model for sustainable development globally.
Billy urged the collaboration of all parties involved to continue supporting the government’s initiatives, particularly in conservation and eco-tourism development in the Gunung Pueh area.
He added that the role of these parties in terms of support, information dissemination, and assistance is crucial for the growth of eco-tourism products in the surrounding areas of Gunung Pueh and for the economic development of the local community.
Also present were deputy director of Forest Department Sarawak Semilan Ripot and Lundu district officer Gustian Durani.
