Solid waste woes put Sukau Biosphere at risk, warns Sabah minister

 By Olivia Miwil

January 11, 2026 @ 5:52pm

Sungai Kinabatangan in Sukau, Sabah - BERNAMA FILE PIC

KINABATANGAN: Sabah's Unesco-recognised Sukau Biosphere Reserve could face reputational risks if solid waste management issues in the area are not addressed, said Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin.

He said Sukau must continue to be a top choice for domestic and international tourists, particularly under the Visit Malaysia Year campaign, positioning Sabah as a world-class eco-tourism destination.

However, he added that issues surrounding solid waste disposal in Sukau's tourism areas must be addressed immediately and systematically.

"Sukau, Kinabatangan is now recognised as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve following a two-year nomination process from 2022 to 2024.

"This recognition is not just an achievement but a major responsibility that requires the commitment of all parties to maintain cleanliness, environmental sustainability, and ecosystem balance.

"The problem of solid waste accumulation not only tarnishes the destination's image but can also directly affect wildlife habitats, river quality, and visitor experiences.

"Failure to act could undermine both the area's Unesco biosphere status and tourist confidence," Jafry said in a statement after receiving feedback from tourism industry operators in Sukau here.

The Sukau assemblyman said among the solutions discussed was the construction of waste collection houses as an initial step towards a more systematic, efficient, and environmentally friendly waste management system.

He added that the ministry will work closely with local authorities, relevant agencies, and the community to ensure practical, realistic, and sustainable solutions are implemented.