The peat swamp forest and its associated wetlands of the Klias Peninsula harbour a sizeable population of Proboscis Monkeys (Nasalis larvatus). The largest concentration is found along the riverine fringes of the Klias River, especially within the Padas-Damit Forest Reserve. Although under threat of shrinking habitats, such limited population is recognised as having significance to the nature-based tourism industry because this is where the world-renowned Klias Wetlands is located. On 14 February 2004, the proboscis monkeys received a rare VIP visit of 120 delegates; those who attended the Convention on Biodiversity, COP7 held in Kuala Lumpur on 9-29 February 2004. The half-day field trip was jointly organized by the Sabah Forestry Department and the UNDP/GEF Peat Swamp Forest Project. The VIP visit pledged commitment and support in the peat swamp forest biodiversity conservation efforts within the shrinking habitats of the Klias Peninsula.
I participated in the Field Tour to meet and share field experience with an illustrous group of like-minded people who place habitat protection agenda high in their list of conservation initiatives. During the brief encounters with the visitors, I was impressed by their immediate acknowledgement and understanding of the importance of cooperation and support of the stakeholders in championing the cause of global biodiversity conservation. |
