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Celebrating Sabah’s Wildlife Guardians

Amid Sabah’s rich and diverse landscapes, a special celebration took place — not for a festival or holiday, but for the dedicated individuals who protect the forests, rivers, and coastlines that countless species depend on. The Guardian of Wildlife: Community and Ranger Conservation Day, hosted by WWF-Malaysia, brought together rangers and community members whose daily efforts quietly but powerfully safeguard Sabah’s natural heritage.
 
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia

Held in conjunction with World Wildlife Day, the event highlighted these individuals' vital role, often behind the scenes, in safeguarding endangered species and habitats. Organised with the strong support of the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) and its Wildlife Rescue Unit, along with partners like Earthworm Foundation, Danau Girang Field Centre, and Seratu Aatai, the day was a tribute to collaboration, courage, and commitment.
Participants came from across Sabah — from marine zones to inland forests — to share experiences, learn new techniques, and strengthen bonds that transcend geography. With pressing issues like poaching and human-wildlife conflict on the agenda, the gathering became a platform for honest conversations, joint problem-solving, and mutual learning.
 
Partners and participants stand together for conservation impact. Participants came from Persatuan Kraftangan Wanita Ulu Muanad, Beluran, Persatuan Wanita Pulau Omadal (WAPO), Komuniti Sugut-Paitan, Sukarelawan komuniti HEC-Kg Imbak Tongod, Sukarelawan komuniti HEC-Kg Pinangah Tongod, 7 Team Beluran, Komuniti Teburi, Komuniti Nabawan (Kg Pulungan and Kg Kambubunut), Komuniti Pulau Kulapuan, Persatuan Kekal Asli Tigabu (KAT) Kg Tigabu, and Banggi Coral Conservation Society (BCCS) from Kg Karakit Banggi).
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia

 

In his opening address, SWD Director Mr Mohd Soffian bin Abu Bakar underscored the importance of shared responsibility. He spoke of the partnership between the government and local communities, affirming that long-term protection of Sabah’s biodiversity depends on empowering those closest to nature.

 
Sabah Wildlife Department Director launches the event at the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre.
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia

Throughout the day, discussions focused on practical strategies to reduce conflicts between people and wildlife, particularly where encounters with elephants or primates are common. From setting up barriers to exploring early warning systems, participants brainstormed ways to protect livelihoods and wildlife. 
 
Participants in breakout groups discuss issues faced and share their success stories.
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia

Demonstrations followed, including using tools like camera traps and drones for monitoring primate populations, blending traditional knowledge with modern technology.
 
A demonstration by WWF-Malaysia showcases the use of drones for primate monitoring.
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia

Another hands-on highlight was first-aid training tailored for rangers working in remote areas. It reminded us that these guardians often operate far from medical facilities, facing environmental challenges and personal risks in the line of duty.

 
Participants are engaging in hands-on training in first aid techniques.
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia

One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was the strong presence of women, nearly a third of all participants. Groups like Persatuan Wanita Pulau Omadal (WAPO), Persatuan Kraftangan Wanita Ulu Muanad, and Komuniti Sugut-Paitan showcased how women are increasingly stepping into conservation roles, lending their voices and leadership to efforts once considered the domain of men. Their participation signals a welcome shift towards a more inclusive and resilient conservation movement.

 
Female participation was visibly strong, with women comprising nearly a third of attendees.
© Mazidi Abd Ghani / WWF-Malaysia
 
“By bringing together rangers, communities, and partners, we strengthen relationships and empower local people to protect their natural heritage. Conservation is everyone’s responsibility — and together, we can create a lasting impact for both people and wildlife.”
~ Dr Robecca Jumin, WWF-Malaysia’s Head of Conservation in Sabah


As the day drew to an end, one message rang clear: this was more than a celebration—it was a rallying call. Sabah’s rangers and communities are leading the charge to protect our wildlife, but they can’t do it alone.

Join us in standing with these guardians of nature. Whether by spreading awareness, supporting conservation efforts, or advocating for stronger natural heritage protection, your actions matter. Let’s keep Sabah’s forests alive with the sounds of wildlife!

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