KOTA KINABALU: July 1, 2026 – Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) in Sabah now cover 2.227 million hectares, or 30.06% of the state’s land area, following the gazettement of about 216,000 hectares of new areas involving commercial forest reserves and state land.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Haji Noor said the move contributes to meeting Target 3 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to protect and effectively manage at least 30% of terrestrial, inland water, marine and coastal areas by 2030.
He said Sabah is not only rich in biodiversity but also plays a significant role in the global conservation agenda.
The state government continues to strengthen biodiversity governance, bioeconomy and biotechnology agendas through the Sabah Biotechnology Action Plan 2024–2034, which serves as a strategic framework to responsibly and scientifically harness biodiversity wealth while generating economic value and developing a sustainable biotechnology industry.
Sabah also remains a premier destination for biodiversity research, with the DaMaI Forest – encompassing the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Maliau Basin and Imbak Canyon – serving as a world-class research hub for local and international scientists.
The rise in applications for State Biological Resource Access Licences under the Sabah Biodiversity Enactment 2000 demonstrates that Sabah is recognised as a leading biodiversity research centre in the region.
In September 2025, the Sabah government signed its first Benefit Sharing Agreement with Botanickel Sabah Sdn Bhd, which is expected to create job opportunities, boost the bioeconomy and attract international researchers, investors and industries.
In line with efforts to strengthen a culture of research and innovation, the government has also introduced the Sabah Biodiversity Research Excellence Award as a platform to recognise local and international researchers contributing to scientific knowledge on Sabah’s biodiversity.
Hajiji made these remarks in a speech delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I and Minister of Works and Utilities, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, at the Sabah Biodiversity Research Excellence Award 2026 ceremony, held in conjunction with the state-level World Biodiversity Day celebration at the Hilton Hotel on Tuesday.
