In Sabah, foresters are racing against time to save 39 endemic tree species that have been classified as endangered by undertaking comprehensive conservation measures throughout the state.

Under Sabah’s Forest Master Plan, High Conservation Value forests will be identified and protected and the presence of endemic tree species will be a valid reason in determining these areas.

Part of the endeavour includes setting up an arboretum which will include ex situ and in situ conservation of these critically endangered trees and also mobilising efforts to protect mother trees.

The reasons why these threats are prevalent, according to the Sabah Chief Conservator of Forests, include over harvesting of these trees, climate change influencing the flowering process and illegal logging.

The Sabah Forestry Department has come out with a book titled “Red List of Sabah Endemic Trees,” which has catalogued 204 or approximately 40 percent of endemic trees in the state that are being threatened by climate change.

The department stated that it hopes through the publication of this book there will be greater awareness on the current conservation status of Sabah’s endemic tree species, especially the 39 critically endangered species.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE