Page 236 - The Guide To Sarawak

234 NATURE
Sarawak’s National Parks
Sarawak’s network of national parks is one of the finest in all of Asia. Sarawak has more totally protected areas than the rest of Malaysia combined, in terms of both number of sites (33) and total land area (almost one million hectares). These areas
are sustainably managed
by state-government- owned Sarawak Forestry Corporation, which is working towards global recognition as a leader in tropical forest conservation and products. The protected areas comprise National Parks and Nature Reserves - which conserve natural and cultural resources while affording recreational or tourism opportunities - and wildlife sanctuaries, which are
strictly for biodiversity conservation only.
The national parks and nature reserves offer eco-conscious visitors the opportunity to explore Borneo’s rainforest, see rare wildlife and view some of the most spectacular natural attractions Sarawak has to offer. They are
all totally protected by state laws; hunting is prohibited and commercial activities are banned.
In some locations, local communities are allowed to carry out traditional activities practised for centuries, but even this
is monitored to ensure that the ecosystem is not disturbed.
Although the emphasis is on conservation,
park facilities have
been developed so that visitors can enjoy and appreciate the diverse natural attractions. Nature-based recreational activities include jungle trekking, mountain climbing, birdwatching, caving, guided rainforest walks, plant study and beachcombing, all with good opportunities to
see some of Borneo’s
rare and unusual wildlife. In some specific areas, e.g. show caves, wild caves, underwater diving, Rafflesia conservation, where resources are sensitive and endangered, visitors are required to
be accompanied by a park guide. However,
The definitive work on Sarawak’s protected areas: National Parks of Sarawak (2000) by Hans P. Hazebroek and Abang Kashim Bin Abang Moshidi.