@ green | July-August . 2024

Pahang plans to list Tioman as an IUCN Green List site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

BY SHEILA ROZARIO

LOCATED on the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia , Tioman Island is a breathtaking paradise teeming with diverse wildlife and flourishing marine ecosystems . The fate of the island hangs in the balance as the pressures of development continue to escalate .

Meet Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri ’ ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah , the Sultan of Pahang , whose profound commitment to sustainability is the beacon of hope for safeguarding Tioman ’ s natural splendour for generations to come .

PRIORITISING ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS IN CONSTRUCTION

From the onset , the Sultan ’ s approach to preserving Tioman is marked by a comprehensive and meticulous vision , ensuring no aspect of the island ’ s natural beauty is overlooked .

“ With 60 per cent of Tioman already gazetted as a wildlife sanctuary , the island enjoys substantial protection ,” said Al-Sultan Abdullah in an exclusive interview with @ Green .

The Sultan ’ s strategy leverages Tioman ’ s designation as a marine park , with strict management

Al-Sultan Abdullah officiates the Malaysia Book of Recordsrecognised event , ' The First LRT Coach Reef in Malaysia ', at Berjaya Tioman Resort .

plans and zoning schemes regulating marine resources and areas .

Existing legislation mandates thorough environmental impact assessments for proposed projects , ensuring that potential environmental effects are meticulously considered .

“ In addition to these protections , promoting the use of green building principles and technologies , along with low-impact and low-carbon construction methods and materials , is crucial .”

By integrating environmental , social , and economic aspects into development plans , Tioman aligns with sustainable development goals .

Pahang ’ s plan to list Tioman as an IUCN Green List site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve underscores its importance as a critical biodiversity landscape , providing further guidance for sustainable development .

MANAGING AIR POLLUTION

Air quality on Tioman Island is another focal point of the Sultan ’ s sustainability agenda .

“ To control air pollution on

Tioman Island , I propose several measures . By integrating these strategies , we can effectively control air pollution on Tioman Island , fostering a cleaner and healthier environment .,” he explained .

Among Al-Sultan Abdullah ’ s proposals are :

• Encourage the Use of Electric Vehicles ( EVs ): Leveraging the island ’ s duty-free status , we can incentivise the adoption of electric vehicles by offering tax breaks or subsidies for EV purchases . Expanding Tioman ’ s duty-free status specifically to promote EVs can further enhance this effort . Establishing comprehensive EV charging infrastructure will also support this transition , making it convenient for residents and visitors to switch to cleaner transportation options .

• Promote Walkability : Developing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure , such as well-maintained sidewalks , dedicated walking paths , and safe crossings , will encourage walking as a primary mode of transportation . Enhancing walkability not only reduces air pollution but also promotes healthier lifestyles and improves the overall quality of life on the island .

• Green Energy Islands Initiative : Supporting the Green Energy Islands initiative will help reduce dependency on fossil fuels by increasing the use of renewable energy sources . This initiative aims to power the island more sustainably , thereby lowering emissions and improving air quality .

PRESERVATION METHODS

Preserving Tioman Island ’ s natural environment requires a multifaceted approach .

“ Strict enforcement of protective measures is essential to safeguard Tioman ’ s unique ecosystems ,” the Sultan asserted .

This includes regulating activities that could harm marine biodiversity and terrestrial habitats . Promoting eco-friendly tourism can help preserve the island ’ s natural beauty while providing economic benefits to the local community .

“ Developing eco-friendly accommodations , guided nature tours , and educational programmes that raise awareness about conservation are key components .”

Undertaking targeted conservation efforts , such as coral reef rehabilitation , is also crucial . Initiatives like the recently launched LRT Coach Reef , where LRT coaches were submerged to serve