An assessment of the state of wildlife awareness in the 5 priority landscapes of the “Conservation of Global Priority Mammal Species and their Habitats in Sabah” programme.

WWF-Malaysia Technical Report

December 2012

An assessment of the state of wildlife awareness in the 5 priority landscapes of the “Conservation of Global Priority Mammal

Species and their Habitats in Sabah” programme. By

Jessica Andreana Francis Leanne Marian Hong

Report Produced Under Project MY0286 Conservation of Global Priority Mammal Species and their Habitats in Sabah

WWF - MALAYSIA

December 2012

i

Table of Contents

Page

Acknowledgement i

Summary ii

1. Introduction 1

2. Methodology 4

3. Limitation 6

4. Results

4.1 Sightings of flagship species 7

4.1.1 Sightings of orang-utan 7

4.1.2 Sightings of rhinoceros 9

4.1.3 Sightings of elephant 9

4.1.4 Sightings of clouded leopard 11

4.2 Observations on illegal hunting and views on increasing protection 11

4.3 Respondents’ awareness level 14

4.3.1 Level of awareness on the declining flagship species population 14

4.3.2 Participation in awareness programme 16

4.3.3 Respondents’ interest and suggestions to accelerate wildlife awareness

programs 17

5. Main results 18

6. Conclusion 18

7. Discussion & Recommendations 19

8. References 22

9. Appendices 23

Appendix 1: Questionnaire Survey Form 23

Appendix 2: Photos 29

Acknowledgement

We take this opportunity to express our gratitude to WWF-Netherlands, WWF-Germany,

WWF-United Kingdom and WWF-Japan who have generously funded the “Conservation of

Global Priority Mammal Species and their Habitats in Sabah” programme.

We are grateful to the respondents who have responded to the survey whose contribution is

valuable.

We are obliged to stakeholders from the Sabah Wildlife Department, private sectors, NGOs,

oil palm plantation companies, local communities, civil servants and volunteers for their time

and the valuable information provided by them in their respective fields. We are grateful for

their cooperation during the period of the study.

We thank Raymond Alfred, Rahimatsah Amat, Tan Hui Shim, Rejani Kunjappan, River Foo for

their cordial support, helpful information and guidance, which helped us in completing this

task through various stages; K. Yoganand for providing inputs on some of the data analysis

and presentation, for review of sections of the report and for providing periodical guidance

on completing this report; Jabanus Miun, David James, Mazidi Ghani and Masrin Otoh for

their field assistance.

Lastly, our sincere appreciation to WWF-colleagues who have contributed by providing

constructive feedback to this work.

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Summary

The Conservation of Global Priority Mammal species and their habitats in Sabah (CGPM)

Programme of WWF-Malaysia strives for conservation of terrestrial species and their habitats

in Sabah. Its vision is to ensure viable populations of threatened mammal species thrive in

large, functioning and sustainably-managed forested landscapes. The four flagship species

which are also WWF’s global priority species targeted in this assessment are the Sundaland

clouded leopard, orang-utan, Sumatran rhinoceros and Bornean elephant.

Key habitats for the target species are located in the five priority landscapes in eastern Sabah,

namely, Tabin, Lower Kinabatangan, Central Forest Reserves, North Kinabatangan and Ulu

Kalumpang.

Among the 6 identified direct threats to the flagship species are forest conversion (habitat

loss), unsustainable logging, illegal hunting, forest fire, infrastructure development resulting

in fragmentation, small population size and the consequent problems. Additionally, lack of

awareness on the need for conserving the targeted species is a factor driving some of the

threats.

Several conservation strategies have been devised as part of the CGPM programme to

address the threats. Awareness through education is among the strategies being

implemented. In order to understand the current status and identify possible actions, an

assessment of the state of awareness was carried out in the five priority landscapes.

This assessment was conducted through an interview survey of public perception and level of

awareness in 33 oil palm estates and villages. We obtained feedbacks from 144 respondents

on their level of awareness about wildlife conservation including existing laws, perceptions on

status of the target species and their observations on illegal hunting activities.

The state of awareness of survey respondents on the declining population of the target

species and the existing Sabah Wildlife Enactment is low. The respondents suggested that

there should be more stringent enforcement and an increase in fines for those who are

caught poaching. They also suggested that more awareness programs need to be carried out

to increase public understanding.

A majority of the respondents obtained information about wildlife and conservation through

television programs. More than half of the respondents showed interest in participating in

future environmental awareness programs and many suggested the use of audio-visual

presentations in Bahasa Melayu for full appreciation.

This assessment has provided us with information on the state of awareness and helped us

identify specific target groups for awareness in the five priority landscapes. Conservation

education activities are inadequate in these priority landscapes and there is a great need for

carrying out more awareness programmes to promote long-term conservation.

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1

1. INTRODUCTION

The Conservation of Global Priority Mammal Species and their Habitats in Sabah (CGPM)

Programme takes a landscape level approach to wildlife conservation. The programme works

in five priority landscapes in eastern Sabah, three of which are in “Heart of Borneo”, striving

for holistic conservation using a multi-faceted approach, including field biology research,

habitat restoration in degraded forests, facilitating forest management plans that as

mandatory include wildlife species requirements, developing enforcement capacity and

awareness campaign for combating illegal hunting, advocating and facilitating certification

processes for production forests, timber and oil palm plantations, establishing habitat

connectivity in priority landscapes and by working with government institutions to make

policy level interventions.

The programme’s vision is to ensure viable population of global priority mammal species

thrive in large, functioning and sustainably-managed forested landscapes. Four flagship

species were targeted and priority actions were planned by WWF-Malaysia to ensure

conservation of these species in Sabah. It was proposed that by addressing the threats to

conservation of these four species, we will also contribute to the conservation of other

important species.

The 4 priority species targeted are:

• Orang-utan (Pongo pygmaeus)

• Asian (Bornean) elephant (Elephas maximus)

• Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis)

• Sundaland clouded leopard (Neofelis diardi)

An acronym, CORE, which stands for Clouded Leopard, Orang-utan, Rhinoceros and Elephant,

refers to these four species.

The important habitat for all conservation targets was identified as lowland Dipterocarp

forest, located in the 5 main landscapes (Fig. 1), namely:

i. Tabin,

ii. Lower Kinabatangan,

iii. Central Forest Reserves,

iv. North Kinabatangan, and

v. Ulu Kalumpang.

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Figure 1: Location of WWF-Malaysia’s 5 priority landscapes in Sabah

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The 6 identified direct threats to the flagship species are:

1. Forest conversion (habitat loss),

2. Unsustainable logging,

3. Illegal hunting,

4. Small population size,

5. Forest fire, and

6. Infrastructure development resulting in fragmentation.

Additionally, lack of awareness on the need for conserving the elephants, orang-utans,

rhinoceros and clouded leopards is also a threat. Most of the time, public perceptions

towards these animals are that they are of little consequence, a pest damaging crops or

simply cute creatures that can be kept as pets. Lack of knowledge and appreciation is a driver

causing threats to their long-term preservation. Dealing with inadequate knowledge among

public must be included in all conservation measures to save these species.

Several strategies have been devised to address the threats. One of the 16 strategies is on

species awareness and education to combat illegal hunting. It is aimed to ensure that with

the increase in public knowledge, awareness and support, continuous effort will be made to

conserve the flagship species in Sabah.

In order to understand the current situation and identify possible future actions, a

preliminary assessment on the state of awareness was carried out within the 5 priority

landscapes. This assessment was crucial for identification of target groups and for evaluation

of the knowledge, attitudes and practices among the target groups. It is also necessary that

awareness materials and activities are specific and appropriate, and are designed with input

from the target groups themselves. Future activities will include refining materials and

evaluation of activities based on the initial trials with the target groups. A thorough

evaluation will be carried out later to review which activities were successful that will help to

channel limited resources to where they can be most effective.

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2. METHODOLOGY

A survey on public perception was conducted to gather information to assist in evaluating the

level of awareness of the respondents. A total of 33 estates and villages, within the 5 priority

landscapes were surveyed and 144 respondents provided their feedbacks (Fig. 2). The survey

was conducted from June 2009 until March 2011.

Table 1: Numbers of respondents from various localities (N=144)

Locality No. Of Respondents

(%)

Oil Palm Plantation

(OPP) / Village

Amalania Koko Berhad 3 (2.1) OPP

Balat 15 (10.4) Village

Batu Puteh 5 (3.5) Village

Buang Sayang 3 (2.1) Village

Bukit Kretam Estate 2 (1.4) OPP

Desa Permai 2 (1.4) Village

Gerola Palm Oil 5 (3.5) OPP

Kg. Dagat 3 (2.1) Village

Kuala Lokan 2 (1.4) Village

Kuamut 18 (12.5) Village

Kulamba 4 (2.8) Village

Kwantas Estate 1 (0.7) OPP

Leepang 1 4 (2.8) OPP

Leepang 5 2 (1.4) OPP

Litang Estate 2 (1.4) OPP

Long Manis 6 (4.2) Village

Menggaris 1 3 (2.1) Village

Menggaris 2 3 (2.1) Village

Permai Estate 2 (1.4) OPP

Sangau 1 (0.7) Village

Sri Ganda 5 (3.5) Village

Sungai Lokan 4 (2.8) Village

Suntai Pertanian Estate 3 (2.1) OPP

Tabin Estate 2 (1.4) OPP

Tangkuyan 16 (11.1) Village

Tomanggong Estate 2 (1.4) Estate

Tulang-Tulang 4 (2.8) Village

Tundun Bohangin 8 (5.6) Village

Tungku Estate 3 (2.1) OPP

Unico 1 3 (2.1) OPP

Unico 2 2 (1.4) OPP

Unico 4 3 (2.1) OPP

UT Plantations 3 (2.1) OPP

TOTAL 144 (100)

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Figure 2: Location of respondents according to locality

6

Figure 3: Occupation of respondents according to the questionnaire survey (N=144)

* Local Community consists of Farmers, Fishermen, Housewives, Heads of Village and JKKK Committee

** Occupations of the respondents were not known

A big portion of the respondents were from the local community (Fig. 3). The local

community, 57 in all who responded to this survey, consists of 28 Fishermen cum Farmers, 14

housewives, 8 JKKK Committee, 4 Heads of Village and 2 self-employed individuals. 34% of

the respondents worked in the private sector especially in the palm oil industry. 5 civil

servants took part in the survey. Occupations of 22% of the respondents were not known.

3. LIMITATIONS

There are a few limitations to this study which may have influenced the interpretation of the

results. The most important was the rather small sample size of respondents in relation to the

population size. Thus their views may not be representative. The small sample may have been

due to inadequate number of surveyors for collecting information. The questionnaire survey

form used to collect data also seemed too complex, and it may have been difficult for the

respondents to comprehend it fully. In addition, the researchers who used these open-ended

questions may not have been skilled interviewers to record all the important information. The

data analysis was also time-consuming and difficult to analyze statistically because it was not

standardized. As a result, the answers obtained tend to get misinterpreted along the way. In

this case, some focused group discussions may have been helpful to consolidate some of the

findings.

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4. RESULTS

4.1 Sightings of flagship species

The project’s conservation targets are the orang-utans, Bornean elephants, Sumatran rhinos

and clouded leopards. Based on the study conducted, it can be concluded that the

respondents have scarce knowledge of the species’ existence and activities in their respective

localities.

4.1.1 Sightings of orang-utan

Table 2: Orang-utan sightings made by respondents (N=144)

Locations of Sightings Frequency of

orang-utan sightings

Estates Boundary 3

Forest Reserve 13

Kalumpang Forest Reserve 1

Masjaya 1

Pin Kecil Hill Forest 1

Pin Supu Forest Reserve 2

River Boundary 4

Sabah Softwood 1

Sungai Pin/Danau Biandung 1

Sungai Sangita 1

Tabin Forest Reserve 1

Ulu Kalumpang 1

Village Boundary 3

Did not specify location 42

TOTAL 75

Note 1: 42 survey respondents reported no sightings of orang-utans

Note 2: 27 respondents did not comment

Majority of the orang-utan sighting happened in forest reserves (Table 2). This is followed by

river boundaries (Sungai Pin, Sungai Sangita, Kg. Kuamut, Kg. Balat, Kg. Menggaris) and

estate boundaries (Tomanggong Estates, Gerola Palm Oil, Masjaya).

8

Figure 4: Number of orang-utans sighted

Note 1: 37 survey respondents did not specify the number of orang-utans sighted

Note 2: The numbers as mentioned by respondents.

1-2 individuals of orang-utans are most commonly sighted by the respondents (Fig. 4). This

reflects orang-utans’ solitary nature. Majority of the respondents observed the orang-utans

while feeding on fruits or palm kernels followed by making nest on trees (Fig. 5).

Figure 5: Activities being performed by orang-utans when sighted by the respondents

During the survey, only 13 cases of damages were reported by the respondents. Most of the

cases were related to orang-utan damaging fruit trees such as durian, tarap and mango, as

well as oil palm trees.

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4.1.2 Sightings of rhinoceros

5 respondents claimed that they have seen rhinoceros in their respective area. The

respondents who reportedly saw the animal were a General Manager from Tomanggong

Estate, a Manager from Unico 1, a Cadet from Unico 2 and 2 foremen (each from Unico 4 and

Unico 1). Out of the 5 individuals, only the Manager from Unico 1 claimed he saw the animal

feeding.

4.1.3 Sightings of elephants

Table 3: Elephant sightings made by respondents (N=144)

Locations of Sightings Frequency of

elephants sightings

Estates Boundary (Kwantas Estate, Litang Estate,

Tomanggong Estate)

5

Burmas 1

Danau 1

Forest Reserve (Kg. Batu Puteh, Kg. Kuamut) 4

Housing, Tabin's river bank & Estate 1

Malubuk Ulu Karis-Karis 1

Masjaya 1

Pin Supu Forest Reserve 1

Tabin Forest Reserve 1

River Bank (Kg. Kuamut, Kg. Menggaris, Kg. Tangkuyan) 4

Tanamas 1

Ulu Kalumpang 1

Ulu Kuamut 1

Village (Kg. Balat, Kg. Kuamut, Kg. Dagat) 4

Did not specify location 61

TOTAL 88

Note 1: 49 survey respondents reported no sightings of elephant

Note 2: 7 survey respondents did not comment

Majority of the respondents sighted the elephants at the estate boundaries followed by

sightings at the forest reserves, river banks and in the villages as well (Table 3). It is shown in

Figure 6 that most of the sightings consisted of 1-5 individuals followed by 21-25 individuals.

10

Figure 6: Number of elephants sighted

Note 1: 47 survey respondents did not specify the number of elephants sighted

Note 2: The numbers as mentioned by respondents.

Figure 7: Activities being performed by elephants when sighted by the respondents (N=144)

When the elephants were sighted, a total 20% of the respondents saw the elephants feeding

on crops such as vegetables as well as fruits and oil palm trees at their respective areas. Some

of the respondents highlighted that the elephants destroyed their crops, fruit trees and palm

oil (11%).

There were 46 cases of damages on crops, fruit trees and palm oil. Out of the reported 46

cases, 19 cases emphasized on palm oil damages namely the seedlings, fruits and oil palm

trees. While the other 27 cases were combinations of crops, fruit trees and oil palm trees

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damages. This did not include a reported case of a house that was damaged at Unico 2 as well

as a school water tank which was damaged at Kg. Kuamut.

4.1.4 Sightings of clouded leopard

Table 4: Clouded leopard sightings made by respondents (N=144)

Locations of Sightings Frequency of

Clouded Leopard Sightings

Forest Reserve 4

Masjaya 1

Pin Supu Forest Reserve 1

Tabin Forest Reserve 1

Did not specify location 11

TOTAL 18

Note 1: 79 survey respondents reported no sightings of clouded leopard

Note 2: 47 survey respondents did not comment

Majority of the clouded leopard sighting happened in forest reserves such as Pin Supu Forest

Reserve and Tabin Forest (Table 4). The clouded leopard was commonly sighted as a lone

animal and the respondents claimed that the animal never caused any damages.

4.2 Observations on illegal hunting and views on increasing protection

Respondents from 19 out of the 33 oil palm estates and villages surveyed reported illegal

hunting occurred in their localities. The 19 localities are widespread across eastern Sabah

(Fig. 2). 19% of the respondents reported that outsiders were hunting in their respective

village areas and in the forest reserves (Fig. 8). But a large number of respondents (49%)

claimed that illegal hunting did not occur.

Figure 8: Respondents’ observation of illegal hunting activities existing in the village and forest (N=144)

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Table 5: List of localities claimed encroached by poachers (N=27)

Locality Profession of the

interviewee Encroacher

profession

No. and Locality

of the

encroacher

Encroacher

activity Remarks

Amalania

Koko Berhad 1 Foreman - - - -

Batu Puteh

2 Tour Guides -

3; Kota Kinabalu

4;Kota Kinabalu,

Ranau, Telupid,

Local community

- -

Kg. Dagat 1 NA - - - -

Kuamut

3 individuals

Fisherman & 2

Local Community

Fisherman,

civil

Servants

and Private

sector

Nabawan,

Keningau, Local

community

-

Fisherman: A

lot came from

Nabawan,

Keningau -

consisting of

civil servants

and private

sectors; used

dog-tracking

Kulamba 1 Fisherman - - - -

Kwantas

Estate 1 Manager - -

Bearded pig

hunting -

Leepang 1 1 General Worker - -

Bearded pig

and barking

deer hunting -

Leepang 5 2 individuals

Cadet & Staff - - - -

Litang Estate 1 General Worker - -

Bearded Pig

hunting -

Menggaris 1 1 Private Staff - -

Bearded Pig

hunting -

Menggaris 2 1

Farmer/Fisherman - -

Bearded Pig

hunting -

Sri Ganda 1 Housewife - - - -

Tangkuyan

2 individuals

JKKK Committee

Member &

Teacher

Hunters Keningau,

Nabawan -

JKKK

Committee

Member:

Happened in

Tangkuyan

Ulu, Batu

Timbang &

Ulu Kuamut

Tulang-

Tulang 2 individuals

Farmer & JKKK

Committee

Member

Hunters Pinangah, Tongod

and Bukit Garam - -

13

Tundun

Bohangin 2 Fishermen - - - -

Tungku

Estate 2 individuals

Assistant Manager

& Mechanic - -

Bearded Pig

hunting -

Unico 2 1 Manager - - - -

Unico 4 1 Manager Police Keningau

UT

Plantations 1 Manager - - - -

TOTAL 27

Most of the respondents stated that bearded pigs are the main target for illegal hunters

(Table 5). A fisherman from Kg. Kuamut acknowledged that a lot of the hunters were civil

servants and private workers who were from Nabawan and Keningau and some of them even

used dogs for tracking wildlife. Another statement made by 2 tour guides from Batu Puteh is

that hunters came from Kota Kinabalu, Ranau, Telupid and even local communities were

involved in hunting activities. A farmer, supported by a JKKK Committee Member of Kg.

Tangkuyan affirmed that hunting activities happened in Tangkuyan Ulu, Batu Timbang and

Ulu Kuamut and were carried out by hunters from Keningau or Nabawan. Even the Manager

of Unico 4 claimed that there were local authorities from Keningau who were involved in

hunting activities in the area.

Anecdotal information was collected through information given by a respondent from Kg.

Balat who had previously attended a talk on wildlife. He shared his concerns on the effects of

hunting activities towards monkeys and bearded pigs population1. He learned that monkeys

and bearded pigs are ranked at the lowest in the wildlife conservation charts; however, they

should not be killed freely because they too make place in the food chain. According to him, if

the monkey and bearded pig population dwindle or become scarce, the crocodiles will tend

to attack humans.

Table 6: Respondents’ suggestion in increasing wildlife protection (N=144)

The respondents hoped that with increasing levels of poaching, there will be an increase in

wildlife protection in their respective areas. Respondents suggested that there should be

increased fines (10.4%) for those who are caught poaching (Table 6). 9.7% of the total

respondents hoped that more stringent enforcement to be implemented to curb poaching

activities. The remaining 7.6% of the respondents suggested that more awareness programs

should be carried out.

1 Interview was carried out on the 12

th August 2010 with a respondent in Balat

Action can be taken Frequency Percentage (%)

Increase Fine 15 10.4

Stringent Enforcement 14 9.7

Awareness Programs 11 7.6

Did not comment 104 72.3

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4.3 Respondents’ awareness level

4.3.1 Level of awareness on the declining flagship species population

Figure 9: Respondents’ level of awareness on the declining flagship species population (N=144)

Majority (39%) of the respondents are aware of the declining population of the conservation

targets. However, 28% of the total respondents indicated that they are unaware of the

decreasing population of the four species. The respondents identified 4 main causes which

contributed to the decreasing population, namely loss of habitat (29.2%), poaching activities

(13.9%), expansion of estates and the designated areas for forest reserve are getting smaller

(Table 7).

Table 7: Identified causes of declining CORE Population

Causes Frequency Percentage

(%)

Loss Of Habitat 42 29.2

Poaching 20 13.9

Expansion Of Estates 1 0.7

Small Reserve Area 1 0.7

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Figure 10: Respondents awareness towards the existing enactment (N=144)

The Wildlife Conservation Enactment was gazetted in 1997. It is a regional piece of legislation

enforced only in the state of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo. Its aim is to protect the endangered

species of fauna and flora in the region as well as to control international trade of these

species. It also details specific penalties for those who break the rules and regulations. 37%

of the respondents have knowledge about the existing enactment while 29% of them are

unaware of the existing enactment (Fig. 10). Of the respondents, 24% did not comment on

their knowledge towards the existing enactment. Fig. 11 also shows that majority of the local

community are unaware (20 respondents) or are unsure (8 respondents) about the existing

enactment. Even 3 of the civil servants and an NGO staff were unaware of the enactment. In

this respect, without a doubt, the knowledge of the existing enactment amongst the

respondents is relatively low.

Table 8: Level of awareness of these survey respondents as compared to WWF-Conservationists

Level of Awareness WWF – Conservationists Survey Respondents

a) Declining population of CORE 100% 39 %

b) Existing Enactment 56% 37%

A brief survey was carried out among WWF- Conservationists to use their level of awareness

as a reference point to compare the results from the survey respondents. 39% of the survey

respondents who were interviewed were aware of the declining population of CORE as

compared to all conservationists (Table 8). However, there was not a large difference in the

level of awareness towards the existing enactment between the 2 groups.

.

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Figure 11: Awareness of the existing enactment according to profession (N=144)

* Local Community consists of Farmers, Fishermen, Housewives, Heads of Villager and JKKK Committee

** NA = Not Available

4.3.2 Participation in awareness programme

Based on the survey conducted, only 26 respondents (18.1%) participated in wildlife

awareness and education programmes which took place in their respective locality or other

places. Out of these respondents, 9 mentioned that the information they obtained is

sufficient. However, 3 of the respondents were satisfied with the information they obtained

pertaining to wildlife and issues related to the wildlife in these awareness activities they had

participated in.

Table 9: Respondents’ source of information on wildlife issues (N=144)

Source of Information

Profession TV Radio

News

paper Talk Brochure Astro Internet

TOTAL

Private Sector 37 23 21 8 8 6 7 110

Civil 4 3 - 2 1 - - 10

NGO 1 - 3 - - - - 4

Local

Community 44 32 4 6 2 - - 88

Not specified 9 11 - 1 - 1 - 22

TOTAL 95

(40.6%)

69

(29.5%)

28

(12%)

17

(7.3)

11

(4.7%)

7

(3%)

7

(3%) 234

* Each respondent answered more than one type of source of information.

17

A majority (40.6%) of the respondents obtained information about wildlife through television

programs (Table 9). Radio (29.5%) stations are the second most common medium for the

respondents to obtain information about wildlife. The third most common medium are

newspapers (12%) but only for respondents from the private sector. It can be safely

concluded here that the private sector has the advantage of various modes of communication

in seeking out more information about wildlife issues, such as the internet, while the local

community has easier access to television and radio programs.

4.3.3 Respondents’ interest and suggestions to accelerate wildlife awareness programs

More than half of the respondents (69%) showed interest in participating in future

environmental programmes. The respondents also gave their suggestions in order to increase

awareness amongst the people living in their respective areas (Fig. 12). Most of the

respondents (40.4%) suggested the use of audio-visual presentations in the Malay language,

as this method will be easily understood by all people regardless of age, gender and

education background. There were 27 respondents (27.3%) who also suggested that public

awareness programmes to be held with participation from both the local community and

foreign workers of the palm oil estates. Besides that, the respondents also suggested

distribution of brochures, talks in the local mosques in their respective areas and awareness

programmes at the local schools.

Figure 12: Respondents’ suggestions to accelerate wildlife awareness programs (N=144)

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5. MAIN RESULTS

1. Illegal hunting is widespread across eastern Sabah.

2. The state of awareness on the declining population of CORE and existing Wildlife

Enactment of the survey respondents is low.

3. Most of the respondents stated that bearded pigs are the main target of illegal

hunters.

4. The respondents suggested that there is a need to increase fines for those who are

caught poaching and more stringent enforcement to be implemented to curb wildlife

crimes. They also suggested that more awareness programmes be carried out.

5. Majority of the respondents obtained information about wildlife through television

programs. Radio is the second most common medium for the respondents to obtain

information about wildlife. The third most common of medium is newspaper but only

for private sector people.

6. More than half of the respondents showed interest in participating in future

environmental programs. Majority of the respondents suggested use of audio-visual

presentations in Malay language as this will be fully appreciated by all people.

6. CONCLUSIONS

This assessment has provided us with information on the state of awareness and helped us

identify specific target groups for awareness in the five priority landscapes. It has also helped

us in designing appropriate awareness materials and activities using inputs from the target

groups themselves.

Conservation education activities are inadequate in these priority landscapes and there is a

great need for carrying out more awareness programmes. The programmes should focus on

promoting reduction in conflicts between human and wildlife, reduction in illegal hunting,

changing attitudes of people by increasing public understanding of the value of wildlife and

wildlife habitats and in general to promote sustainable use of natural resources. This

assessment suggests that communicating with the local people about wildlife is crucial for

long-term conservation in Sabah. A combination of innovative approaches to wildlife

education and the involvement of local people can have a large and positive impact on

conservation.

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7. DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Opportunities for awareness programmes can be made with participation from various

parties which will benefit everyone particularly the local community. High impact awareness

programmes should be carried out continuously especially within the local community and

private sectors in the palm oil industry. Local communities must be encouraged to participate

actively in the conservation and protection of the environment as they are the ones who will

be receiving both direct and indirectly, effects from the environment. Private sectors also

need to practice good stewardship towards the environment as large scale oil palm

plantations do contribute both positive and negative effects to the environment and the

population of human and animal whose livelihood depends on.

But not all is lost, the majority of the respondents have shown interest in active participation

in wildlife awareness programmes. These are some of the recommendations (Brockington,

Duffy & Igoe, 2010; Shrestha, 2005):

1. Capacity building programs

2. School based environmental clubs

3. Wildlife awareness and extension programs

4. Printed educational materials

5. Media coverage

6. Radio programs

7. Conservation videos/documentaries

7.1 Capacity building programs

Capacity building programs such as training sessions and workshops can be organized for

local staff, teachers, local leaders and management staff of oil palm plantations to develop

understanding, skills and capabilities in conservation and to have in-depth understanding and

knowledge about Wildlife Enactment 1997, poaching issues and human-wildlife conflict.

Local youths can be recruited into NGOs and be actively involved in conservation activities.

Besides educating and training local youths about wildlife conservation, such effort will lead

to empowerment because the local youths (local community) can make contribution in

protecting the environment that they depend on (Brockington, Duffy & Igoe, 2010: 90). When

the local community are empowered, ultimately this may lead to active involvement in

decision making processes as one of the stakeholders. As one of the stakeholders in the

environment that they live in, thus it will lead to a sense of belonging and responsibility

towards the environment. Consequently, stewardship will be practiced by the local

community in protecting and conserving their environment and the wildlife that exists within

this environment (Brockington, Duffy & Igoe, 2010: 92-99; Maffi & Woodly, 2010: 184-187).

7.2 School based environmental clubs

School based environmental programs can be implemented amongst school children situated

within the 5 main landscapes. Environmental clubs can be established at participating

schools. Members of the environmental clubs can carry out various curricular and extra-

20

curricular activities to enhance and broaden their knowledge of the environment and its

conservation. Such activities will be able to raise environmental and conservation awareness

among the students, teachers and youths thereby encouraging them to participate in the

conservation of the natural and cultural environment both at local and national levels

(Shrestha, 2005: 4-5).

The environmental clubs’ activities may include study tours, tree planting projects, clean-up

campaigns, awareness campaigns in the locality, recycling and re-use of waste materials, and

various competitions such as essay, poetry and song writing, performance and quizzes about

CORE. These are very helpful in developing the students’ knowledge and personality as a lot

of preparation is required before writing an essay, poem or song about CORE. Such activities

may give them an opportunity to learn hands-on and increase their creativity, encouraging

them to participate in other programs. By using this creative and entertaining learning

process, students will do research and apply their findings, which will prove more effective

than other one-way approaches where students simply acquire knowledge.

By instilling the importance of conservation and CORE in the minds and actions of the youths,

WWF-Malaysia can look forward to continuous support of the youths as they grow up and

leave their schools. Through active participation in environmental clubs, school children may

show increased responsibility towards the environment and student education radiates

through community. It is believed that conservation messages conveyed to a student are

passed to the people in his/her home, then through them, to the wider community.

7.3 Wildlife awareness education and extension programs

Education – not just as information, but education of the kind that deepens understanding

and transforms moral and spiritual values – is what is ultimately required to produce this

societal shift (Maffi & Woodly, 2010: 187). Various wildlife awareness education and

extension programs including campaigns, community mobile education and extension

programs, celebrations, audio/visual programs and billboards with conservation messages

can be organized at local level to create awareness on conservation issues among the local

communities as well as the management of oil palm plantations. Organized environmental

celebrations dates can be carried out with the people such as Wildlife Week, World

Environmental Day, World Forestry Day, and Biodiversity Day (Shrestha, 2005: 6). Such

celebrations will be an ideal opportunity to communicate and raise community awareness

about the significance of biodiversity conservation and CORE.

These celebrations are an effective tool for disseminating information about the importance

of biodiversity, wildlife and its conservation. They not only help raise awareness among those

who participate in the festivities, but also among larger communities who observe the

program, in this case including the foreign estates workers. The knowledge participants’ gain

from their involvement in such events is shared among friends, neighbours and members of

the wider community thus increasing conservation awareness among a larger population

within the 5 main landscapes.

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7.4 Printed education materials

The educational materials must be developed in the Malay language for both community

members as well as the foreign estates workers. Different types of materials can be

developed for different target groups - such as school students, teachers, community

members and foreign estates workers - including books, posters, flyers, bookmarks and

stickers (Shrestha, 2005: 9).

Visual aids can be displayed during conservation education programs; it is much easier to

help target group audience understand the conservation issues especially on CORE. According

to the survey findings, the respondents highlighted that the audio-visual should be presented

in the Malay language for general understanding, especially if the awareness program is

targeted at local communities and foreign workers in the oil palm plantations.

7.5 Media coverage

Media coverage is another crucial way to make conservation efforts known to the rest of the

country and the world (ibid.: 11). WWF-Malaysia can organize media trips for environmental

journalists. These media trips may help journalists appreciate, and thereby portray, the real

situation of CORE ‘in the field’. Media coverage motivates the people involved in

conservation by recognizing their effort and also reaches out to the general public who are

keen to know more about conservation and CORE.

7.6 Radio and television programs

Awareness programs can be disseminated at a larger scale through television and radio

broadcast. More collaboration with various local FM stations can be carried out to raise

awareness on various conservation issues in the area among the residents (local community

and estates workers) especially with regards about CORE. The survey findings showed that

the source of information on wildlife issues for most of the local community was from

television and radio broadcast. Thus, such method will be more practical especially for the

residents who have easier access to television and radio as most people can afford them, and

this sort of information system will reach illiterate people in a way that most printed media

are unable to.

7.7 Conservation videos/ documentaries

Videos and documentaries on the conservation of forest especially on CORE can be made and

collected from relevant organizations such as local universities, local television production

companies and other NGOs. These videos and documentaries will be shown to the protected

area community members and estate workers in order to raise conservation awareness.

Project documentaries can be produced and broadcasted on national television and other

channels. By doing so, information about project activities and regional issues can be

disseminated to a larger audience (Shrestha, 2005: 11).

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8. REFERENCES

Brockington, D., Duffy, R. & Igoe, J. 2010. Nature Unbound: Conservation, Capitalism and the

Future of Protected Areas. United Kingdom: Earthscan.

Shrestha, N. 2005. ‘Education and Communication for Biodiversity Conservation in Nepal’.

Written for the Education for a Sustainable Future Conference in January of 2005.

Maffi, L. & Woodly, E. 2010. Biocultural Diversity Conservation: A Global Sourcebook. United

Kingdom: Earthscan.

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9. APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Questionnaire Survey Form

SENARAI PERIKSA PENILAIAN KOMUNITI KAMPUNG :

TARIKH :

NAMA : (Nama penduduk yang ditemubual)

JAWATAN :

TELEFON :

A. CIRI-CIRI FIZIKAL 1. Lokasi (GPS) : 2. Bilangan (keluarga / rumah) dalam kampung: 3. Jumlah penduduk dalam kampung : 4. Bilangan (keluarga/rumah) dalam 10 tahun yang lalu : 5. Purata penduduk / rumah : 6. Kawasan pekan & pertanian / penanaman :

Aktiviti Pertanian Penanaman

Keluasan

Lokasi GPS

7. Persatuan suku kaum: a. Kewujudan persatuan: Ya / Tidak b. Jika Ya, nyatakan kaum : 8. Laluan perhubungan a. Laluan sungai: Bot kecil / Bot komersil besar b. Laluan jalanraya: Motorsikal / Kereta / Trak / 4WD / Jalan Kaki 9. Hak pemilikan tanah a. Pemilikan tanah : Ada / Tiada b. Permohonan : Ada / Tiada c. Tahun permohonan :

No.

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B. PENDAPATAN Pekerjaan Pendapatan Bulanan

Saraan Hidup Catatan

Bekerja / Kerja Kontrak

Jumlah bekerja:

Jumlah tidak bekerja: Jenis pekerjaan:

Memancing Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta

Pertanian - Padi Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta

Lain – lain pertanian Jenis tanaman:

Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta

Memburu Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta

Pengumpulan rotan / NTFP

Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta

Pembalakan Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta

Industri desa Jenis perusahaan:

Jumlah pendapatan untuk 1 bulan/tahun/kontrak :

Jumlah / bulan : Identifikasi atas peta Jenis kraftangan dalam rumah (jika berkaitan) :

C. ASPEK KEBUDAYAAN (HCVF-6) Lokasi (GPS / Lokasi peta) Keluasan (hektar)

Tapak keagamaan

Ada / Tiada Nyatakan kawasan tapak keagamaan

GPS: Keluasan:

Tanah perkuburan Ada / Tiada Nyatakan kawasan tapak perkuburan

GPS: Keluasan:

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Kawasan keramat, nenek-moyang dan tapak bersejarah

Ada / Tiada Nyatakan kawasan tapak perkuburan

GPS: Keluasan:

Kawasan memburu / memancing Ada / Tiada Nyatakan lokasi

GPS: Keluasan:

D. KEPERLUAN SOSIAL Penerangan

Pendidikan rendah / menengah Sekolah Rendah : Ada / Tiada Sekolah Menengah: Ada / Tiada Jika tiada, nyatakan sekolah yang terdekat:

Klinik / Hospital Jarak / masa perjalanan dari kampung: Kemudahan kunjungan : Senang / Tidak senang

Peluang pekerjaan Tempoh pekerjaan : Jangka masa panjang / Bermusim Lokasi: Dalam Kampung / Luar Kampung

Pengangkutan jalanraya Kualiti : Baik / Tidak Tempoh kualiti: Jangka masa panjang / Bermusim

Pengangkutan sungai Kualiti : Baik / Tidak Tempoh kualiti : Jangka masa panjang / Bermusim

Pasaran hasil tempatan Ada / Tiada Pembeli / Pelanggan

Bekalan elektrik / air Ada / Tiada

Isu-isu kewanitaan Nyatakan:

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E. NILAI PEMULIHARAAN KOMUNITI TERHADAP HUTAN (HCVF) Memburu / Hidupan liar / Memancing (HCVF 5)

Identikasi atas peta GPS: Kepentingan: Tinggi / Rendah

Air minuman (HCVF 4) Identikasi atas peta GPS: Kepentingan: Tinggi / Rendah

Pengumpulan rotan, buah-buahan, tumbuhan perubatan (HCVF 5)

Identikasi atas peta GPS: Kepentingan: Tinggi / Rendah

Lain - lain Identikasi atas peta GPS: Kepentingan: Tinggi / Rendah

F. CORE Adakah anda pernah ternampak kehadiran haiwan di kawasan ini?

Orang-utan

Rhino

Gajah

Clouded Leopard

Di mana ada selalu terlihat mereka? Berapakah bilangan mereka?

Apakah yang mereka sering lakukan semasa kehadiran mereka?

Adakah mereka melakukan kerosakan di kawasan anda? Nyatakan jenis kerosakan.

Lakarkan dimana kawasan tersebut dan adakah kawasan ini adalah laluan penting bagi hidupan liar ini

Dalam Satu tahun berapa kali hidupan liar ini datang dan merosakkan tanaman atau hadir di kampung anda.

Status kedatangan atau gangguan hidupan liar (setiap tahun)

10 tahun lalu 5 tahun lalu 2 tahun lalu

Tahun ini Tahukah anda yang populasi spesis ini semakin berkurangan?

Ya Tidak Kurang pasti

27

Apakah pendapat anda tentang ancaman utama spesis ini?

Kemusnahan habitat/pembalakan haram Pemburuan haram Tidak tahu

Dari skala 1 hingga 5, sila nyatakan kepentingan pemuliharaan spesis ini.

G. PENDIDIKAN DAN KESEDARAN AWAM

Adakah pernah diadakan program pendidikan sebegini di kawasan ini?

Jika ya, pada padangan anda, adakah ia memadai dalam menyampaikan pesanan/ mesej ini kepada anda?

Pada fikiran anda, adakah anda memiliki pengetahuan yang mencukupi mengenai isu-isu yang sedia ada?

Apakah jenis komunikasi yang anda gunakan untuk mendapat maklumat? (boleh tanda lebih dari satu pilihan)

Surat khabar Televisyen Radio Risalah/brosur ceramah Lain- lain (sila nyatakan)

Adakah anda berminat untuk menyertai mana-mana program alam sekitar jika dijalankan?

Ya tidak tidak pasti

Pada pendapat anda, bagaimana kita dapat meningkatkan kesedaran terhadap spesis – spesis bagi penduduk-penduduk di sini? (boleh tanda lebih dari satu pilihan)

Menggunakan risalah risalah bermaklumat alam sekitar ( ) Membuat ceramah di masjid ( ) Membuat kempen kesedaran di tempat awam ( ) Membuat aktiviti kesedaran di sekolah sekolah ( ) Membuat aktiviti melibatkan orang ramai dalam pemuliharaan alam sekitar ( ) Lain lain cadangan, sila nyatakan ____________________________________ Tiada cadangan ( )

Status enakmen Adakah anda tahu tentang penguatkuasaan terhadap hidupan liar termasuk denda-denda yang akan dikenakan ?

ya tidak kurang pasti

Adakah anda fikir penguatkuasaan yang sedang dilaksanakan adalah mencukupi?

ya tidak kurang pasti

Adakah orang-luar sering masuk dan memburu di kawasan kampung anda atau kawasan hutan yang berdekatan.

ya tidak kurang pasti Kalau Ya, berapa orang dan darimana asal dan jenis pekerjaan orang tersebut (daerah atau kaki tangan kerajaan, polis atau pembalak, pekerja kelapa sawit) No: Daerah: Latar Belakang

28

Pada fikiran anda, apakah yang boleh atau perlu dilakukan dengan lebih giat lagi untuk memastikan perlindungan terhadap hidupan liar?

1. meningkatkan denda terhadap pemburu haram 2. penguatkuasaan yang lebih baik 3. lebih banyak aktiviti kesedaran 4. lain lain

Lain-lain komen : _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

29

Appendix 2: Photos

30

* Photos taken during assessment period

WWF-Malaysia (World Wide Fund for Nature-Malaysia), the national conservation trust,

currently runs more than 75 projects covering a diverse range of environmental protection

work aimed at conserving our natural resources to secure our good quality of life and our

children’s bright future.

WWF-Malaysia (Sabah Office)

6th Floor, CPS Tower, Centre Point Complex

No. 1, Jalan Centre Point

88800 Kota Kinabalu

Sabah, Malaysia

Tel: +6088 262 420

Fax: +6088 242 531

E-mail: contactus@wwf.org.my

wwf.org.my

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