GEORGE TOWN, Aug 21 (Bernama) -- The unique ecosystem of Penang National Park in Teluk Bahang, comprising forests, coastal areas, wildlife habitats and a meromictic lake, must be preserved through conservation approaches that also encourage greater community engagement with nature.
Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh said conservation efforts should not focus solely on protecting natural areas, but must also involve the community in safeguarding the nation's biodiversity.
"The natural treasures we preserve today are not merely for our enjoyment; they are a heritage that must be passed on to future generations in the best possible condition," he said in a statement today.
The statement was issued following his field visit to Penang National Park yesterday to inspect the park's management, unique ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts.
The visit began with a briefing by the Penang Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) on the park and its overall ecosystem, followed by a boat tour of the coastal area by Syed Ibrahim.
At Kerachut Beach, Syed Ibrahim visited the Turtle Conservation Centre, managed by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia, to observe efforts to conserve turtle species, particularly Green Turtles and Olive Ridley Turtles, and protect their natural habitats.
He then inspected the Meromictic Lake, a unique ecological feature of Penang National Park that highlights the diversity of ecosystems within a single area and the interconnectedness of habitats in maintaining ecological balance.
The visit continued at Entopia Penang, where he observed conservation education initiatives that enable the public to learn about biodiversity through direct and interactive experiences.
Syed Ibrahim said such educational approaches were crucial in fostering greater understanding and appreciation of nature among the public, particularly the young generation.
He added that responsibly managed ecotourism could serve as a bridge between conservation efforts and the community by providing opportunities for people to discover and appreciate biodiversity without compromising ecosystem sustainability.
"For the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), effective conservation must be grounded in realities on the ground and involve the community as part of the solution.
"The natural treasures we preserve today are not merely for our enjoyment; they are a legacy that must be passed on to future generations in the best possible condition," he said.
-- BERNAMA