Malaysia: Environment and wildlife protection key to Sabah's economic growth

Olivia Miwil New Straits Times 31 May 19;

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah can sustain its positive tourism sector performance and growth by continuously protecting of its environment and wildlife, said economist Dr Rafiq Idris.

The Universiti Malaysia Sabah Business, Economics and Accountancy faculty senior lecturer said Sabah’s natural environment had contributed towards its big tourist numbers.

“People continuously visit Sabah because of its ‘nature’. The beautiful beaches, islands, mountain, waterfalls, jungles and wildlife among others are among the main reasons tourists come.

“Good environment and wildlife protection would attract tourists from around the globe to visit Sabah which has potential to further contribute to the state’s tourism sector significantly," he said in a statement.

Rafiq said through its increasing number of tourists, it also enhances business opportunities, creating jobs and attracting investments.

He said in conjunction with World Environment Day 2019 which falls on June 5, discussion centres on whether a developing nation should prioritise its economy or environment.

“Some argue on the ability of developing countries to achieve better growth if they were not allowed to extract their resources freely.”

On the Sabah context, despite many issues and news related to environment and wildlife in Sabah, Rafiq said the state still has many fresh, clean, unpolluted environments as well as protected wildlife species. However strict enforcement on its protection is essential.

“Environment protection and wildlife conservation awareness has increased around the world.

“Policies or regulations on this have changed or being improved over time. It is not impossible at least in the long run to see trade agreements including stringent requirement being enforced on environment or wildlife protection.”

He said recent trade agreement such as the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement had seen greater commitment by member countries to go beyond those stated in the CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

“There is also a possibility in the future, trade boycott of certain products could take place if the country does not comply with certain international standard or regulations,” he said, adding that poor environmental quality affects economic growth and wellbeing by lowering the quality and quantity of resources or due to health effects.