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Nomination of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve under the UNESCO Man & the Biosphere Programme

The Habitat Penang Hill and The Habitat Foundation (The Habitat) are proud to join the Penang State Government, the Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) and the people of Penang in celebrating the nomination of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve by the Malaysian Government as a candidate site under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. This nomination has come about through the concerted efforts and close collaboration of both state and federal government agencies, led by PHC and the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (KeTSA), working toward the shared goal of ensuring that the distinct cultural and environmental heritage of Penang island is recognized and preserved for the benefit of future generations.

The Habitat is proud to have had the opportunity to support this visionary initiative through our funding of the preparation of the nomination dossier by the consultant team from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and the contribution of the results of our Penang Hill BioBlitz in October 2017 to support the application to UNESCO. The proposed Biosphere Reserve showcases a continuum of protected habitats from hill and lower montane forest, to lowland dipterocarp forest, and vital coastal and marine ecosystems. UNESCO’s MAB Programme strives to preserve cherished inherent values while advancing our commitment towards sustainability and living in balance with nature.

There are currently over 700 Biosphere Reserves in the global network. With this important milestone, The Habitat Group looks forward to continuing to work with PHC, USM and other stakeholders to support conservation, research, education and sustainability initiatives both on Penang Hill and beyond and to be actively engaged in this increasingly critical global conversation.

With this nomination Penang has the opportunity to have two UNESCO-recognised sites with George Town a designated World Heritage Site and the natural areas of Penang Island listed as a Biosphere Reserve under the UNESCO Man & the Biosphere Reserve programme.

The hills and the coast of Penang have always been important to Penang’s communities. The Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve which encompasses these natural areas are a vital green lung to Penang Island; they provide valuable ecosystem services, spaces for recreation, and support the local economy. The nomination of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve under the UNESCO Man & the Biosphere Programme celebrates Penang’s distinctive natural and social landscapes and emphasizes an ongoing commitment to achieving a balance between nature conservation and development through sustainable use.

The Habitat Foundation and The Habitat Penang Hill are proud to be supporting the nomination of the area shown in the map by the Government of Malaysia under the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme.  This biodiversity-rich landscape comprises the hill forest of Penang Hill which extends all the way to the lowland dipterocarp forest and coastal zone within Penang National Park, and then a further 1.5 nautical miles into the sea. This area is protected within existing Forest Reserves, water catchment areas, and the park. It comprises 12,481 hectares of which 7,285 hectares is on land, and 5,196 hectares is marine.

BIODIVERSITY AT OUR DOORSTEP

The Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve consists of vital natural habitats with high species richness and diversity. Based on biodiversity data gathered to date, 2456 species of plants from 206 families are found here. Around 20 are on the IUCN Red List, including four that are listed as Critically Endangered.

More than 550 animal species have been recorded within the proposed Biosphere Reserve. Endemic and endangered fauna known from this area include marine species such as sea turtles and the shore-near Irrawaddy dolphin. On land, some of the important terrestrial species are the pangolin, slow loris, and the endemic Penang Island rock gecko.

Biodiversity of Penang Hill BR
Jumping spider (Photo credit: PhilTorres)
Jumping spider (Photo credit: PhilTorres)
Kingfisher 38719884
Kingfisher 38719884
Draco lizard
Draco lizard
web ubr biodiversity Trilobite beetle
web ubr biodiversity Trilobite beetle
Chestnut malkoha
Chestnut malkoha
Photo creditL Durrell Kapan
Photo creditL Durrell Kapan
Fruitbat
Fruitbat
Vampire crab
Vampire crab
Giant millipede
Giant millipede
Malayan oakleaf
Malayan oakleaf
Leopard cat
Leopard cat
Centipede
Centipede
Mousedeer
Mousedeer
Asian small-clawed otter
Asian small-clawed otter
Pitcher plant
Pitcher plant
Penang Rock GeckoPhoto credit: Durrel Kapan
Penang Rock GeckoPhoto credit: Durrel Kapan
Tokay Gecko (Gecko gecko)
Tokay Gecko (Gecko gecko)
Fungi
Fungi
Pit viper
Pit viper
Penang Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum barbatum)
Penang Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum barbatum)
Scorpion
Scorpion
Dusky leaf monkey mother and young
Dusky leaf monkey mother and young

In January 2016, The Habitat Penang Hill was opened. This world-class rainforest discovery and interpretation centre provides opportunities for panoramic views of the magnificent rolling hills of untouched forest from its iconic canopy walkways, as well as magical encounters with biodiversity along its nature trails.

The Habitat (part of PHBR)
Curtis Crest Treetop Walk offers the opportunity to experience panoramic views of the forest
Curtis Crest Treetop Walk offers the opportunity to experience panoramic views of the forest
One of our tree-hugger platforms
One of our tree-hugger platforms
Scaling the meranti tree using single-rope tree climbing technique
Scaling the meranti tree using single-rope tree climbing technique
Greater racket-tailed drongo
Greater racket-tailed drongo
Langur Way canopy walk is the only suspension bridge of its kind in Southeast Asia
Langur Way canopy walk is the only suspension bridge of its kind in Southeast Asia
A Sunda colugo
A Sunda colugo
The Habitat's team of naturalist provide interpretation along the nature trail
The Habitat's team of naturalist provide interpretation along the nature trail
A closer look usually reveals eye-opening finds
A closer look usually reveals eye-opening finds
Penang Hill Rock gecko, a species only found on Penang Island
Penang Hill Rock gecko, a species only found on Penang Island

PENANG HILL: A LINK TO THE PAST, A VANTAGE POINT TO TIMELESS RAINFOREST

In 1786, Penang Island became the first British acquisition on the Malay Peninsula. As the oldest British hill station in South-East Asia, for over a century, Penang Hill served as a retreat of elegant bungalows where people could escape the hot, humid, coastal lowlands with views into the pristine rainforest. Bel Retiro, the governor’s mansion was one of the first bungalows built on the hill in the early 1800s. Early naturalists would explore the surrounding forest to collect amphibians, reptiles, and insects, and plant specimens for herbariums and living collections. These would prove to become important first records of the biodiversity of Peninsular Malaysia.

Since it was first completed in 1923, the Penang Hill Funicular Railway has provided a means to escape to the refreshing cool of the hills. Since then, the train system has continued to improve in terms of speed, technology, and capacity. As in ages past, the train and its schedule continue to define the rhythm of daily life on the hill.

Today, the Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) manages the operations of the historical funicular railway, the top station and surrounding areas on Penang Hill. PHC’s mission statement states that “PHC is committed to the preservation and stewardship of the natural and historical heritage of Penang Hill through Conservation, Education, Eco-tourism, Innovation, Safety and Green practices for future generations.”

Penang Hill Corporaion is leading the nomination of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve on behalf of the state government. PHC also runs programmes that showcase both the historical and natural heritage of the Hill.

THE HISTORIC BOTANIC GARDENS OF PENANG  

The Penang Botanic Gardens was established in 1884 on a 29 hectare valley with a forest backdrop and a magnificent cascading waterfall. The gardens were planned and developed under the supervision of Charles Curtis, the first superintendent. The Gardens are an offshoot of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. As a tribute to his contributions to botanical exploration, several plants have been named after him.

The Gardens splendidly blend the botanical and horticultural aspects with the spectacular tropical rainforest landscape. They house an impressive collection of botanic specimens, both live and curated. It is an important site for research and education while being a much loved recreational area for local residents who frequent the Gardens in the early morning hours and evenings for light exercise or more strenuous hikes in the adjacent forest trails.

PENANG NATIONAL PARK: WHERE THE FOREST MEETS THE SEA

Penang National Park, Teluk Bahang
Jetty at Teluk Bahang in the coastal zone
Jetty at Teluk Bahang in the coastal zone
The local economy is based on a combination of fishing and tourism services.
The local economy is based on a combination of fishing and tourism services.
Natural forest continue all the way to the coast
Natural forest continue all the way to the coast
Green turtles nest all year round at Penang National Park
Green turtles nest all year round at Penang National Park
View of the coastline at Pantai Kerachut
View of the coastline at Pantai Kerachut
Fishing village at Teluk Bahang
Fishing village at Teluk Bahang

One of the crowning jewels of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve is Penang National Park which showcases wonderful examples of wetlands, mangroves, mudflats, coral reefs, and a unique sandy beach. Comprising only 1,213 hectares of land and sea, the park is an exceptionally rich and accessible biodiversity site. It is known to house 417 flora and 143 fauna species. Turtles nest on this beach all year round and there is a turtle sanctuary here which is managed by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks. The meromictic lake within the park is the only one of its kind in Malaysia. It is composed of unmixed freshwater on top and seawater below, each supporting its own fascinating mini-ecosystem.

Muka Head Lighthouse, a 14-meter granite tower built by the British in 1883 is an example of built heritage within the park. The Lighthouse continues to serve as a beacon to assist incoming ships approaching Penang Island from the Andaman Sea and the Straits of Malacca.

The park makes an important contribution to conservation, environmental education, public recreation and Penang’s vibrant nature-based tourism economy.

SAFEGUARDING ESSENTIAL ECOSYSTEM SERVICES  

PHBR Ecosystem Services & Local economy
Teluk Bahang fishing village
Teluk Bahang fishing village
Fuitbats play an important role in pollinating trees including those that are commercially significant
Fuitbats play an important role in pollinating trees including those that are commercially significant
The forests of the Biosphere Reserve are essential for providing clean water for the population of Penang island
The forests of the Biosphere Reserve are essential for providing clean water for the population of Penang island
Mangroves help protect the coastline and nurture fisheries resources
Mangroves help protect the coastline and nurture fisheries resources
Mangroves
Mangroves
Fishing continues to be an important economic activity in Penang
Fishing continues to be an important economic activity in Penang
The farming community of Penang Hill produce fruits and vegetables for local consumption
The farming community of Penang Hill produce fruits and vegetables for local consumption
Farms on Penang Hill
Farms on Penang Hill

The Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve provides ecosystem services that are essential to the well-being and quality of life for all Penang residents. Clear streams originating in the hills flow into the Teluk Bahang and Air Itam dams, which supply water to the whole of Penang Island. Environmental or ecosystem services such as watershed and water-catchment, carbon sequestration, soil stabilisation, climate change mitigation are hallmark features of the proposed reserve.

The mangroves of the coastal core zone of the PHBR are excellent pollutant purifiers and sinks for water borne pollutants from the inland areas. The mangrove soils and roots fringing the Penang National Park and adjoining areas trap polluted materials from inland activities, immobilize nutrients from the rivers flowing into it. The strong roots and buttress systems of the mangroves plants also form a natural buffer between land and sea helping to dissipate intense winds and wave action.

The marine component of the Biosphere Reserve harbours an abundant diversity of commercially important organisms, including bivalves, molluscs and fishes which are particularly important for the local economy.

 

 SUSTAINING A VIBRANT SOCIAL LANDSCAPE AND ECONOMIC ACTIVITY

The Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve supports the livelihood of a coastal community who have a long tradition of tapping into the rich marine resources for their socio-economic needs. Artisanal fishing is carried out along the coast using traditional fishing gear and low powered engine boats. The fishermen also supplement their income by participating in the tourism industry as guides and boatmen.

A small agricultural community has resided on Penang Hill for generations. Mainly accessed from the Middle Station, their produce of fruits and vegetables are important to the food supply of Penang. Farmers here are also very keen to enhance the sustainability of their farms. There is considerable interest in adopting more environmentally-friendly water and soil technologies for their daily operations and participating in trials of alternative farming approaches.

Local people have also observed the impacts of climate change and are want to partner with others to ensure that their farms remain resilient and productive. This is something that can be explored as part of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere programme.

 

A PLACE FOR STUDYING SUSTAINABILITY

  

The Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve has the potential to become an important learning site for trialing and introducing more sustainable practices to assure a balance between conserving and utilizing biodiversity. Ecosystem services directly benefit the local community in terms of employment in the tourism, fisheries, agricultural or forestry sectors.  The presence of one of Asia’s top 50 universities, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), and other research institutes including the World Fish Centre and the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies in the vicinity of the PHBR, furnishes research and educational logistics to reconcile the conservation and socio-economic functions within the UNESCO Man and Biosphere framework.

Strong support from the Penang state government in sustainable issues is promoted through its Penang Green Agenda (PGA). This area can serve as a demonstration site for the utilisation of green technologies and dissemination of environmental innovations.

List of Agencies & Organisation involved

NO AGENCIES/ORGANISATIONS
1 PENANG HILL CORPORATION
2 THE HABITAT FOUNDATION
3 THE HABITAT PENANG HILL
4 UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA PULAU PINANG
5 PENANG ISLAND CITY COUNCIL
6 PENANG GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (PeGIS)
7 PENANG BOTANICAL GARDEN
8 PENANG FORESTRY DEPARTMENT
9 PENANG NATIONAL PARK
10 PENANG FISHERIES DEPARTMENT
11 FISHERIES RESEARCH INSTITUTE, BATU MAUNG
12 PENANG LAND OFFICE (NORTHEAST DISTRICT)
13 PENANG LAND OFFICE (NORTHWEST DISTRICT)
14 PENANG LAND AND MINE OFFICE
15 DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND NATIONAL PARKS
16 PENANG TOWN AND RURAL PLANNING DEPARTMENT
17 STATE HERITAGE DEPARTMENT
18 DEPARTMENT OF SURVEY AND MAPPING
19 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
20 DEPARTMENT OF IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE
21 PENANG WATER SUPPLY DEPARTMENT
22 PBA PULAU PINANG
23 PENANG GREEN COUNCIL
25 PNK TLK BAHANG
26 GEORGE TOWN WORLD HERITAGE INCORPORATED PULAU PINANG

Penang Hill Corporation is leading this initiative of nomination of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme on behalf of the Penang State Government. The initiative is funded and supported by The Habitat Penang Hill and The Habitat Foundation.

UBR_Exhibition Info Panels Sept 2018

Conservation
  • Hornbills and Orang Asli Communities – farmers of the forestHornbills and Orang Asli Communities – farmers of the forestJanuary 5, 2021The Habitat Foundation is proud to provide a grant to the Malaysian Nature Society towards implementing a pilot initiative under its longstanding Hornbill Conservation Project to develop a community nursery that stocks hornbill (and other wildlife) resource plants and trees. The nurseries will be developed with Orang Asli from Kampung Chuweh in the Belum-Temengor Forest Complex. Wartawan-Eko teams bring their creativity to The Habitat Habitalk: Selami dan Dekati bersama Husni Che Ngah Habitalk: The Bats of Penang — Our Invisible Heroes Empowering the next generation of community leaders Microplastic Loads in Fish and Invertebrates in Malaysian Rivers...
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  • Raising awareness of our amazing small apes on International Gibbon Day 2020Raising awareness of our amazing small apes on International Gibbon Day 2020November 17, 2020Most Malaysians can recognise the evocative call of gibbons when they are close to good forest, but few know that there are actually five species of gibbons and that all of them are endangered by habitat loss at the impact of the pet trade. To help nurture a greater sense of sppreciation for these creatures of the high canopy, The Habitat Foundation teamed up with the Malaysian Primatological Society (MPS) organized a virtual event to celebrate International Gibbon Day 2020. The public talk featured Dr. Susan Lappan of Appalachian State University, Lisa Ong, a PhD candidate at University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, and Ethan Pang from THF who did his PhD on gibbons at USM. Aini Hasanah of MPS moderated the session. Dr Susan Lappan has studied the largest of the small apes, the powerful and jet black Siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus) in Sumatra for 15 years. Like other small apes, siamang live in close-knit family units, usually consisting of a pair-bonded male and female, and a few young. Siamang defend a territory from the intrusion of other siamang groups by duetting loudly. Their calls can carry for over a kilometer. From the study of seed dispersers in Belum-Temenggor, Lisa Ong’s research has helped to highlight the importance of wild gibbons as seed dispersers in our forest landscape. Gibbons consume mainly fruits and swallow the seed whole in the process, and could bring the seed as far as 1km away from the other tree. This makes them important keystone species of the forest, and vital to health and resilient forest ecosystems. Ethan Pang had the opportunity to gain insights into the life of the agile gibbons which may be found in Ulu Muda, Kedah. Agile gibbons (Hylobates agilis) have been found to persist in degraded forest, and such forest posses value to be protected. The Habitat Foundation is supporting the IUCN National Action Plan for the Conservation of Small Apes in Malaysia, being led by MPS. Experts from Malaysia and around the world, local stakeholders, agencies, and NGOs have joined forces to develop a comprehensive action plan to protect gibbons and their habitat in Malaysia. If you have information to contribute, or would like to be involved in the discussions you can find out more by visting www.primatesmalaysia.org. You can also help contribute data on the abundance and distribution of gibbons, by reporting sightings or hearing their calls to malaysiangibbons@gmail.com to UNGKA – Small Apes of Malaysia Research & Outreach. This is a citizen science data gathering platform that is enlisting the public’s participation in gathering information to help develop more targetted conservation actions. Keen to learn more? Watch the recorded session on Youtube!...
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  • A national initiative to develop an Action Plan to conserve Malaysia’s Small ApesA national initiative to develop an Action Plan to conserve Malaysia’s Small ApesOctober 11, 2020The Habitat Foundation is honoured to support a new national initiative to develop an IUCN Action Plan for the Conservation of Small Apes in Malaysia being coordinated by the Malaysian Primatalogical Society (MPS). Over the coming months, key individuals, organizations, institutions and agencies from across Malaysia will be participating in thematic discussions to help provide an assessment of the conservation status of Malaysia’s gibbon species. They will assess the main threats and challenges and collaboratively develop a strategic Action Plan to ensure their conservation in the wild. The Action Plan is being developed with generous funding and technical assistance from the IUCN Primate Specialist Group – Section on Small Apes. To learn more, contact MPS at malprimsoc@gmail.com. To register use this link http://bit.ly/IUCNSAMsia The initiative commenced on 22 September 2020 with the Inception Workshop which brought together diverse stakeholders to discuss the objectives of the Action Plan and the framework for consolidating inputs and developing recommendations. Dato’ Kadir bin Abdul Hashim, the Director of PERHILITAN opened the workshop on behalf of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. Dr Ozwald Braken Tisen attended for Sarawak Forestry Corporation and Mr Peter Malim represented Sabah Wildlife Department. The session was ably moderated by Dr Ahmad Zafir of The Habitat Foundation. Dr Susan Lappan, Dr Nadine Ruppert and Aini Hasanah presented for the Malaysian Primatological Society. Special thanks to Dr Susan Cheyne, Vice-Chair of the PSG Section on Small Apes for joining us all the way from Oxford even though it was very early in the morning! Over the coming weeks, diverse stakeholders comprising primate specialists, protected area managers and staff, environmental NGOs, researchers, naturalists, and local knowledge holders will contribute data and insights to help us understand population distribution, habitat fragmentation and other serious threats. These and inputs from regional and international conservation experience will feed into more targeted conservation actions and potentially more financial support for all Malaysia’s five species of small apes....
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  • Strengthening capacity for biodiversity conservation impact among CBOs in Greater KLStrengthening capacity for biodiversity conservation impact among CBOs in Greater KLFebruary 25, 2020THF Conservation Grant Kota Damansara Community Forest (KDCF) Society was established in 2011 to serve as the official community counterpart to manage KDCF, which was gazetted for protection in 2010. Today, it is regarded as a model community-managed urban forest and a demonstration of public participation (National Policy on Biodiversity 2016).  The Society has also played a major role in building similar like-minded organisations. In late 2019, it was awarded a small grant from the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP) to implement a 20-month project to address urban forest loss in Greater KL and build collective capacity for biodiversity conservation and community engagement among community-based organisations (CBOs) and government authorities in Selangor and the Federal Territory. The GEF-SGP grant will be channelled towards activities to establish a common platform to protect remaining green areas in the Klang Valley and create a more hospitable landscape for biodiversity in the sprawling urban metropolis. The Habitat Foundation is strengthening this initiative by providing co-funding to boost capacity for project coordination, networking and successful project delivery. The project comprises four components: 1. Creating impact at the planning stage and government level Working with the municipal council, professional urban planners, and the forestry department to identify forested areas on state land, private land, and other reserves that can be conserved as urban greenspaces. Exploring opportunities to ensure their protection. 2. Capacity-building among organizations​ The project will nurture a strong network of CBOs to consolidate collective experience to offer technical assistance and support to stakeholders and agencies seeking to emulate successful models for community-based conservation and engagement. This platform will hold public meetings to elevate the need for urban green spaces at a national level and elicit firm governmental commitments to  and programmes that support biodiversity conservation in urban environments. 3. Specialized training and development of resources and publications Sustainable forest trails: leveraging off the experience of Kota Damansara Community Forest and Bukit Kiara, the project will demonstrate the power of sustainable forest trails for engaging the public to appreciate and enjoy nature. The training will comprise a combination of theory sessions followed by practical experience from building a new trail. Bringing biodiversity back: the project will work with academics and key organizations to develop resources for ‘biodiversity gardens’ which would focus on plants that are important to support local species of birds, bees and butterflies. A publication will be developed as a ‘how to’ guide for schools as well as residential areas and a few schools will be enlisted to demonstrate the programme. Appreciating biodiversity: the project partners will organize several specialized-training activities to teach interested organizations on how to develop their skills as Nature Guide. Programmes would include macrophotography, herpetology, entomology, birding and forest flora among others. 4. Enlisting the next generation The forest classroom: in order to cultivate connection to nature, programmes would be run to familiarize teachers and parents with how they can organize learning programmes in the community forests among our network. Voluntarism and community service: organizations with experience in organizing volunteer activities will share their experience and networks in order to enlarge and streamline opportunities for school groups and students working towards service awards. Enlisting tertiary students: working with academics from local universities, and in conjunction with the Forestry Department, we would seek to develop a programme of internship opportunities in conjunction with this project so students may gain experience within  our CBO network....
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  • Community-based mangrove restoration in Cherating and Chendor, PahangCommunity-based mangrove restoration in Cherating and Chendor, PahangFebruary 24, 2020Mangroves are an important nature-based solution to the current climate crisis. In addition to sequestering carbon they are vital and productive ecosystems that support local economic activity. This project invests in restoring mangroves in the wetlands of Chendor and Cherating, a popular destination for community-managed ecotourism. Besides its importance for local livelihoods, the area allows people to learn about the role of mangroves in coastal and fisheries resource protection, and as a nature-based solution to removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Well-managed ecotourism to the Cherating mangroves demonstrates how economic benefits can responsibly flow from nature. Additionally, the mangrove swamp’s proximity to Club Med Cherating and other resorts draws a steady stream of visitors and provides them with an opportunity to learn about this important ecosystem. Nature-based tourism along Sungai Cherating: visitors are drawn to the propsect of experiencing magical firefly tours, but come away with new appreciation of mangrove ecosystems. Funding from The Habitat Foundation will strengthen Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) Pahang to build a stronger collaborative framework between academic institutions, government agencies such as the Pahang Forestry Department, and the local community, who are stewards of this ecosystem. This project will involve ongoing volunteer mangrove planting activities and various initiatives to enhance the communication and outreach capabilities of MNS....
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  • Developing native tree nurseries with local Jahai in Royal Belum State ParkDeveloping native tree nurseries with local Jahai in Royal Belum State ParkFebruary 24, 2020THF Conservation Grant The Habitat Foundation, together with the Tropical Rainforest Conservation Research Centre (TRCRC) and the Perak State Parks Corporation (PSPC), are piloting an innovative project engaging Jahai Orang Asli within Royal Belum State Park to establish native tree nurseries. Participating Jahai villagers from Kg. Sg, Klewang will collect the seeds of wild fruit trees, dipterocarps, and other target species from the forests adjacent to their village. Seedlings from rainforest species that have been germinated at TRCRC’s nursery. TRCRC to conduct ongoing training and mentoring for Jahai collectors from Kampung Sg. Klewang, who will lead the programme in their village. It will also go towards establishing the native tree nurseries, monitoring and caring for the seedlings as they germinate, and the initial purchase of saplings from the Jahai. The project will secure long-term sponsors to purchase saplings from the nurseries and plant them at sites identified as being important for restoring connectivity in the Central Forest Spine. In the past year, PSPC has made strong strides in integrating indigenous people into the operations of the park. A successful pilot project in Kg. Sg. Klewang could lead to the expansion of the native tree nurseries to other villages within the park if there is interest. Importantly, it could also present a dynamic model for local community participation elsewhere in Malaysia where Orang Asli live in the vicinity of key protected areas and wildlife corridors. This initiative could well demonstrate a framework for greater involvement of traditional peoples associated with protected areas while providing a viable option for improving local livelihoods. Jahai communities residing in Royal Belum State Park face many challenges in improving their livelihoods. The aim of the project is to provide a sustainable basis to earn supplementary income. THF and TRCRC team members on a site visit to ascertain local interest in participating in the project. Recently, to take advantage of the masting event occurring every five to seven years in dipterocarp forest, TRCRC organized several sessions to collect endangered/rare/threatened (ERT) dipterocarp seeds. These were purchased from the Orang Asli participating in this programme and will be germinated in their dedicated nursery within the Amanjaya Forest Reserve. Some of the seeds that were gathered by Jahai collectors during the masting event in October 2019. Watch their video here:...
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  • Conserving the migratory shorebirds and wetlands of Teluk Air Tawar-Kuala Muda CoastConserving the migratory shorebirds and wetlands of Teluk Air Tawar-Kuala Muda CoastFebruary 24, 2020THF Conservation Grant A Great Knot seen foraging on the Teluk Ayer Tawar mudflats bears a tag – a reminer that shorebird conservation is, by necessity, a global effort. Spanning an area of around 500 hectares, in the northern region of Seberang Perai, lies one of the few remaining intact wetlands in Penang. The Teluk Air Tawar-Kuala Muda (TAT-KM) Coast is an internationally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) and part of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Its mangroves and mudflats annually attract shorebirds migrating from Siberia to Australia, providing a vital stopover along this epic journey—scientists and nature lovers having recorded flocks of 10,000 to 12,000 at a single site during the peak of migration. Shorebirds congregating at the edge of the Teluk Ayer Tawar mangroves during the peak of the migration around January This location, however, is also targeted for jetty construction and conversion to aquaculture farms, activities that may severely compromise the health of the mangroves and mudflats and the vital roles they play in enhancing fisheries, protecting coasts and sequestering carbon. The Shorebirds Project of Peninsular Malaysia led by Dr Nur Munira will use its Conservation Grant to continue monitoring and documenting the abundance and diversity of birds visiting the TAT-KM Coast. This data will communicate this to shorebird researchers worldwide. Using an integrated approach combining research, community engagement, and education and outreach to engage with key agencies and stakeholders in support of the protection of the remaining mangroves of the coastline and socialize the potential value of this area for nature tourism with benefits to local livelihoods. Follow Shorebirds Project of Peninsular Malaysia‘s conservation journey by following updates on their FB page This Sunday, come discover the unique beauty of the resilient shorebirds that visit our shores on their annual migration. This very special talk on "Migratory Shorebirds in a Changing Coastal Landscape" by Penang's very own Yeap Chin Aik will be held at the UAB Building, Gat Lebuh China on 23 June 2019 from 11 am. https://www.facebook.com/events/345743756130559/#thehabitatpenanghill #thehabitatfoundation #conserveeducateinspire #sensationalshorebirdsPosted by The Habitat Foundation on Jumaat, 21 Jun 2019 From afar migratory birds look the same, but there is a remarkable diversity of species. Taking inspiration from Hong Kong’s Mai Po Nature Reserve, a model of successful wetland conservation, this project will bring new perspectives to managing the TAT-KM Coast. It is hoped that this will contribute to important decisions to protect these important ecosystems and safeguard fisheries resources. Watch her video here:...
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  • Song of the gibbons: an ethnoprimatological approach to conservation of the HylobatidaeSong of the gibbons: an ethnoprimatological approach to conservation of the HylobatidaeFebruary 23, 2020THF Conservation Grant 2019/2020 A young Lar or White-handed gibbon (Hylobates lar). Song of the Gibbons is a collaboration between the School of Social Sciences and the School of Biological Sciences at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). It is part of an innovative three-year study using passive acoustic monitoring to better understand gibbon population ecology in and around Taman Negara National Park. The study enlists members of the Bateq hunter-gatherer community at the fringes of Taman Negara National Park as co-researchers. It is led by anthropologist Lye Tuck-Po, who has a longstanding relationship with this community. Research on the effects of habitat degradation and human predation on gibbon populations in Malaysia is currently poor. There is little reliable information on gibbon population densities in protected areas like Taman Negara National Park as well as forest outside the park. The study will help to answer some of these questions and could lead to collaborations with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilian) to develop more targeted conservation actions. By enlisting the Bateq as researchers to glean additional insights into gibbon demography and behaviour, a more nuanced understanding of the human-alloprimate interface in the study site will be produced. Findings from this study will be applied to evaluate the conservation status of gibbons, ultimately improving their protection. Indigenous research assistance from the Bateq ethnic group have been able to accelerate understanding of gibbon ecology due to their intimate knowledge of the forest and its wildlife inhabitants. A THF Conservation Grant will complement existing project financing from both USM and a National Geographic Explorer Grant. These funds will primarily be used to engage Bateq field researchers and facilitate their travel to Penang for data analysis. It will also contribute to the cost of organizing a Sound Analysis Workshop at USM, run by trainers from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Ithaca, New York. This workshop will strengthen capacity building among local researchers who are using bioacoustics monitoring technology. Dr Susan Lappan from Appalachian State University, United States, who is studying the behavioural ecology of gibbons is an advisor to this study. Dr Lappan is also a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Section on Small Apes and the country coordinator for the IUCN Malaysian Gibbon Action Plan....
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  • THF and Raleigh Kuala Lumpur recce Perlis State Park for future activitiesTHF and Raleigh Kuala Lumpur recce Perlis State Park for future activitiesFebruary 23, 2020Perlis State Park (PSP) is located at the north-western part of Perlis, covering an area of 5,000-hectares. It comprises two forest reserves: Mata Ayer Forest Reserve and Wang Mu Forest Reserve. Apart from being located next to Kampung Wang Kelian (probably the northernmost village in Malaysia), it constitutes the Malaysian part of the 36-kilometre-long Nakawan Range. Thailand manages the range on its territory as Thale Ban National Park. Perlis State Park boasts stunning limestone caves, especially Gua Wang Burma and Gua Kelam, which is said to be the longest cave in Peninsula Malaysia (3.6-kilometres). The limestone caves there are at least 500 million years old! Its highest peak is Gunung Perlis, which is 733-metres above sea level and the northernmost point of Peninsular Malaysia. A THF Conservation Grant enabled the Perlis Forestry Department to construct a 10-kilometre sustainable trail to Gunung Perlis, following MyChangkul’s consultation. The construction of the trail was completed in early 2019 and was officially launched on 16 August 2019. In early January 2020, some of the THF team conducted a recce with Raleigh Kuala Lumpur to explore opportunities for collaboration and to further support the park managers in encouraging more visitors to the park. All parties are very positive about establishing a volunteer programme later this year where participants can connect with nature while engaging in community service through trail maintenance and adding visitor amenities along the trail. Although it was a long journey, with an eight-hour return trip, we had lots of fun hiking to the northernmost point of Peninsular Malaysia. If you are interested in visiting the park, or participating in volunteer activities there, we would love to hear from you. Do email us at thf@habitatfoundation.org.my...
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  • The Habitat Team plants mangrove trees at Sungai AchehThe Habitat Team plants mangrove trees at Sungai AchehFebruary 23, 2020Every year, the funicular train that takes visitors and workers up Penang Hill is temporarily closed for nine days of routine maintenance works. This year, during the train shutdown, 40 staff from The Habitat Penang Hill and The Habitat Foundation travelled to Sungai Acheh to plant 150 mangrove saplings and get stuck into wetland restoration work with local experts! Gathering in the Mangrove Forest Education Centre, we listened to Mr. Ilias Shafie, the chairman of PIFWA (Penang Inshore Fishermen’s Welfare Association) who shared how the organization came to into being. We learned about their ongoing efforts to help people understand the importance of mangroves for marine life, coastal protection and carbon sequestration. Wetlands are mainly threatened by pollution, overharvesting, and conversion for agriculture and aquaculture. In 1997, PIFWA began championing wetland restoration to reverse the impacts of coastal degradation and its negative impacts on local fisheries resources. They started by conducting surveys, and experiment with developing nurseries for mangrove seedlings of different species. Their reputation as community experts in mangrove rehabilitation has grown ever since. They now boast and aroboretum of as many as 14 species of mangrove trees, Replanting mangrove species used for soil protection, producing food products, and craft-making is now one of their major activities. Following the talk, the team headed down the boardwalk and into the mud, which was initially dry and compact, but eventually became wetter and deeper. After arriving at the planting site, they began digging suitable-sized holes before carefully removing the saplings from the polyethene nursery bags, placing them inside, compacting the mud around them and repeating the process until all 150 were planted. As a result of PIFWA’s activities, 347,900 mangroves have been replanted in Penang, with a 90% survival rate. Over the years, their experience has shown that rehabilitating wetlands, such as degraded mangroves, is beneficial in the long run as the improved ecosystem has regenerated disappearing species, thus reviving its biodiversity along with acting as a major carbon sink. Their mangrove replanting initiative also helps protect coastlines from erosion and damage by tidal surges, currents, rising sea level, and storm energy in the form of waves, storm surges and wind. Furthermore, it plays a role in supporting good water quality and marine life, including commercial fish and crustaceans, thus helping sustain local abundance of fish and shellfish populations. On the way back to the education centre, some of the staff spotted several species of wildlife including a Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus), white-throated kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis), Van Hasselt’s Sunbird (Leptocoma brasiliana), crab-eating macaques (Macaca fascicularis), green jewel bugs (chrysocoris stolli) and several species of fiddler crabs. A hearty meal of rice, curry fish, fried chicken, cooked vegetables and ulam with sambal, was served by the PIFWANITA, the women’s counterpart to PIFWA. The ladies contribute to their families’ livelihoods by catering for guests, and producing and promoting mangrove-based food products such as jams and herbal teas. Both organizations regularly travel to participate in exhibitions and environmental fairs where they talk about their experiences and promote their activities and products produced from mangroves. By raising the profile of Malaysia’s wetlands, and enlisting partners in local government as well as private sector companies operating in Penang, they have been pro-active in ensuring that these areas are constantly monitored leaving no opportunity for these wetlands to be illegally cleared or degraded. With persistence and curiosity, they have succeeded in cultivating experience and knowledge that is now actively shared with other coastal communities....
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The Habitat Penang Hill
Bukit Bendera,
11300 Penang, MALAYSIA.

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