Kinabatangan and Crocker Range biosphere reserves important for Sabah

 By Olivia Miwil

June 14, 2026 @ 2:03pm

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the recognition by Unesco on the second reserve last year proves that the Kinabatangan landscape, covering approximately 413,866ha, possesses outstanding biodiversity value and ecological significance at the international level. - Courtesy pic

KOTA KINABALU: The proclamation of Kinabatangan Biosphere Reserve marks a historic moment and a proud achievement for Sabah and Malaysia.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the recognition by Unesco on the second reserve last year proves that the Kinabatangan landscape, covering approximately 413,866ha, possesses outstanding biodiversity value and ecological significance at the international level.

"With this world-class status, the Kinabatangan Biosphere Reserve is expected to attract international attention in the fields of research, education, nature-based tourism and global collaboration opportunities," he said.

Hajiji was speaking at the 12th anniversary celebration of the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve and the declaration ceremony of the Kinabatangan Biosphere Reserve at Padang Merdeka here.

He said the Kinabatangan Biosphere Reserve focuses on river and wetland ecosystems, which are important habitats for wildlife and essential for maintaining healthy water systems.

"When forests are protected and allowed to recover and regenerate naturally, they continue to store carbon over the long term," he said, adding that the biosphere also plays an important role in strengthening local economies.

As for the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, the 350,584ha area covered 10 districts, namely Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Ranau, Tambunan, Keningau, Tenom, Beaufort, Papar and Membakut.

The recognition of the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve has contributed to Sabah attaining the Unesco Triple Crown Sites status.

"In the Crocker Range and Kinabatangan, local communities can benefit through sustainable tourism, including homestays and community-based enterprises.

"These long-term livelihood opportunities encourage communities to continue protecting forests and wildlife because the environment becomes a stable source of income rather than a source of short-term gains.

"Therefore, we must ensure that the recognition of these two biosphere reserves brings benefits and economic spillover effects to all segments of society living within both biosphere reserve areas," he said.