Dr Daud Yusof…the state government should demonstrate greater transparency and accountability.
KOTA KINABALU : – Bongawan Assemblyman Dr. Daud Yusof has voiced serious concerns over reports suggesting the potential privatisation of the Borneo Elephant Sanctuary (BES).
He emphasised the need for transparency, accountability, and responsible management to protect Sabah’s unique biodiversity and natural heritage.
In a statement today, Dr. Daud questioned the rationale behind the government’s decision to appoint a private entity to manage the sanctuary, which was originally established as a premier rehabilitation centre for elephants in Sabah.
He pointed out that the sanctuary has yet to live up to its mission, citing persistent issues such as habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflicts, and reports of rising elephant deaths.
“It is especially troubling that this move comes in light of the generous donation of land by a Japanese company and NGO in 2019, specifically to support elephant conservation in Sabah,” Dr. Daud who is a veterinarian by training, said.
He added that this act of goodwill highlights Sabah’s global responsibility in safeguarding its wildlife and raises questions about the government’s management of these resources.
Dr Daud who is a former Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry outlined several pressing concerns:
1. Justification for Privatisation
He questioned why a private entity was chosen to manage BES and whether alternative options, such as involving reputable conservation organisations or empowering local communities, had been considered. “The public deserves to know the criteria used to select this private entity, including their track record in environmental conservation,” he said.
2. Accountability for NGOs and Donor Funds
Highlighting the need for transparency, Dr. Daud called for stricter oversight of NGOs involved in conservation projects to ensure donor funds are used effectively and achieve meaningful conservation outcomes.
3. Rising Elephant Deaths
The assemblyman expressed alarm over reports of elephant deaths, particularly near areas like the Maliau Basin, and called for investigations into the causes. He questioned whether privatisation would resolve or exacerbate these challenges.
4. Effectiveness of Existing Conservation Efforts
Despite decades of involvement by private companies and NGOs, Sabah continues to face significant conservation issues. Dr. Daud questioned why these problems persist and whether privatisation would truly lead to better outcomes.
5. Habitat Destruction and Illegal Activities
Dr. Daud underscored the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to combat illegal logging and plantation encroachment, stressing that privatisation alone cannot resolve these threats.
6. Human-Wildlife Conflicts
He also highlighted the increasing human-elephant conflicts caused by habitat loss and fragmentation, urging the government to present a clear plan to address these issues sustainably.
Dr. Daud called on the state government to demonstrate greater transparency and accountability, emphasising that conservation efforts should reflect a genuine commitment to protecting Sabah’s natural heritage.
“Privatising these responsibilities undermines the trust placed in our government by both citizens and the international community. Conservation is not about passing responsibilities to private entities; it is about safeguarding our identity and natural heritage,” he stated.
The assemblyman urged the government to honour the trust placed in it by the people of Sabah and international donors by ensuring its policies uphold conservation and sustainability for future generations.
