14 @ greenXtra | November-December . 2024

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

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 .

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 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 pedestrianfriendly 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 as artificial reefs , help preserve marine ecosystems by providing new habitats for aquatic life .

“ Implementing sustainable waste management practices is essential to reduce pollution and protect the environment .”

This includes setting up efficient waste collection and recycling systems , promoting waste reduction , and encouraging the use of biodegradable materials .

MONITORING AND REGULATION OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Effective monitoring and regulation of construction projects on Tioman Island necessitate a multistakeholder approach .

“ Establishing a joint committee that includes representatives from various stakeholders , such as the state government , the Pahang Biodiversity Council , local communities , environmental and social NGOs , and relevant authorities , is essential ,” the Al- Sultan Abdullah explained .

This committee would oversee all construction activities , ensuring they align with environmental regulations and sustainability goals .

Regular inspections and continuous monitoring of construction sites are also vital .

“ Utilising modern technologies , such as drones and satellite imagery , can enhance the effectiveness of these inspections ,” the Sultan noted .

Pursuing a listing as an IUCN Green List site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve would impose rigorous international standards on development , ensuring that any construction projects support Tioman ’ s ecological integrity .

Promoting and enforcing sustainable construction practices , such as using eco-friendly materials and implementing green building principles , is crucial .

INITIATIVES FOR RIVER CLEANLINESS AND POLLUTION PREVENTION

Maintaining the cleanliness of rivers on Tioman Island is another critical aspect of the Sultan ’ s environmental strategy .

“ Organising frequent river clean-up campaigns involving local communities , tourists , and environmental organisations raises awareness about the importance of clean rivers .

“ Implementing penalties for violations and ensuring proper waste disposal facilities are available and accessible throughout the island will support these efforts ,” he added .