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MIRI – Rare and threatened wildlife and plants have been found in a massive ecological and heritage survey in the Baram district that was completed recently.
The Baram Heritage Survey, conducted 200km inland from Miri, was completed by Penan and Orang Ulu natives in collaboration with local and American researchers.
Komeok Joe, the director of indigenous non-governmental organisation Keruan, said the survey lasted two years and was the biggest ever involving natives.
“The survey in the forests and communities in the upper Baram region found an incredible range of rare, threatened species of animal life, wildlife, plants, and trees.
“We have compiled maps and detailed information on the way of life of the forest communities, the knowledge of the forests, their land rights, and struggles against destruction of the forests by logging.
“All these are documented in a 90-page compilation,” he said in a press statement today.
Borneo Project director Jettie Ward said the survey showed the importance of having local communities take charge of protecting their forests and rivers.
Save Sarawak Rivers chairman Peter Kallang meanwhile said the survey findings are proof of the urgent need to limit or totally stop all logging operations in Baram. – The Vibes, September 27, 2022