Preserving a mangrove haven

The Rajang-Belawai-Paloh delta supports both a rich biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities.

THE mangrove forests of the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh delta in central Sarawak not only teem with wildlife but sustain the livelihoods of local communities.

According to WWF-Malaysia, the mangrove complex where the Paloh, Rajang, and Belawai rivers meet is the largest in Sarawak.

The rich biodiversity found in these mangrove forests ranges from fish and marine mammals like the Irrawaddy dolphin and finless porpoise to proboscis monkeys, silver leaf monkeys, and many bird species, including lesser adjutant storks.

The mudflats created by the mangroves also provide crucial feeding and roosting sites for migratory birds flying south from the northern hemisphere during the winter months.

To date 11,763 mangrove seedlings have been planted by the local communities in the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh area. - Photo courtesy of WWF-Malaysia

For the people living in the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh area, the mangroves are more than just trees; they are lifelines.

WWF-Malaysia’s mangrove and dolphin conservation senior officer Vivien Yeo explained, “Mangroves act as nurseries and feeding grounds for fish, crabs, and prawns, supporting local fisheries and livelihoods.

“They also provide firewood used in the production of smoked prawn, a local delicacy known as ‘sesar udang’.

“Additionally, mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastal areas from storm surges and erosion while helping to combat climate change by serving as carbon sinks.”

A small nursery has been set up to nurture young mangroves. - Photo courtesy of WWF-Malaysia

Yeo noted that while mangroves are known for their resilience and capacity for self-regeneration, natural regeneration can be impeded by degradation or habitat destruction.

“In such cases, active replanting efforts become essential to restore the mangrove ecosystem,” she said.

WWF-Malaysia is currently working with the Sarawak government and local communities on a mangrove restoration project in the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh area.

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Together with the state Forest Department, local planning authorities and other government agencies, the local communities are leading the restoration work in degraded mangrove areas to preserve ecosystems vital for their livelihoods and biodiversity.

Kampung Rajang community leader Penghulu Abu Seman Masri said the mangrove conservation project would benefit local communities.

“It can help prevent coastal and riverbank erosion, besides conserving the ecosystem. It also helps to improve the local economy.

“I hope this project can be continued not only in this area but also in other degraded mangrove areas around the world,” he said.

WWF-Malaysia programme officer for mangrove and dolphin conservation Vivien Yeo. - Photo courtesy of WWF-Malaysia

As secretary of the mangrove and dolphin conservation community participatory committee in Rajang-Belawai-Paloh, Abu Seman expressed gratitude to WWF-Malaysia and donors for supporting the restoration and conservation of the mangrove ecosystem in this area.

Kampung Stalon headman Maoh Bohom emphasised the project’s importance for future generations.

“This project benefits the rural communities and future generations who require a sustainable environment. I hope these efforts can be continued for the benefit of all,” he said.

Yeo pointed out that mangrove restoration is no walk in the park.

“It involves trudging through mud, enduring insect bites, and the risk of crocodile encounters. The challenges don’t end with replanting either.

Mudflats in the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh area are a haven for migratory shorebirds. - Photo courtesy of WWF-Malaysia

“Continuous care, monitoring, and maintenance are imperative as threats like crabs and goats feeding on mangrove shoots can hinder growth. The tireless efforts of these local communities in the restoration are truly commendable as they strive to enrich the lives of individuals and the environment,” she added.

For Yeo, mangrove restoration in the Rajang-Belawai-Paloh area exemplifies the World Environment Day theme of “Land Restoration”. World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, promotes global awareness and action on protecting the environment.

“By planting native mangroves, we are not just rejuvenating the land; we are creating a future where both nature and people can thrive,” Yeo said.