Sabah State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong launching the Sabah Biodiversity Centre Strategic Plan 2022-2032, while SBC director Dr Gerald Jetony (second right) and others look on.
KOTA KINABALU: A newly launched biodiversity database is expected to provide accurate ecosystem diversity information, aiding in the formulation of local policies and ensuring sustainable development in Sabah.
Dubbed the Sabah Biodiversity Integrated Information System (SaBIIS), its database comprises flora and fauna data collected over 50 years by various agencies, including the Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Agriculture Department, Sabah Museum Department, Sabah Parks, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, and WWF Malaysia.
Additionally, the creation of the mobile application iSaBIIS, which incorporates a citizen science concept, enables public participation in the data collection of Sabah’s flora and fauna.
Both SaBIIS and iSaBIIS were developed by the Sabah Biodiversity Centre (SBC) with the support of Digital Heritage Sdn Bhd.
“Data obtained from this system can contribute to decision-making processes involving infrastructure development projects, flood prevention, and other economic sectors.
“I hope the data analysis from each participating organisation and public contributions can be produced and used as scientific facts for future project proposals,” said Sabah State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong at the launch of SaBIIS and iSaBIIS here yesterday.
He said innovations in digital technology and data analytics within SaBIIS will empower informed decision-making processes and increase accountability in environmental management.
At the event, Safar also launched the Sabah Biodiversity Centre Strategic Plan 2022-2032, which will serve as a reference and guide for the development and conservation of biodiversity in Sabah over the next 10 years.
“I believe that the SBC will remain committed and motivated to improve the quality of public service delivery through the initiatives and targets set in this strategic plan,” he said.
