Kuching Wetlands an eco-legacy for tourists too

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KUCHING: The Kuching Wetlands National Park (KWNP) is gaining popularity especially among tourists, with an estimated four to five tourist boats visiting the area daily.

According to Pantai Damai assemblyman Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, the 6,610-ha sanctuary located 15 km from the city centre is host to a variety of inhabitants such as crocodiles, Irrawaddy dolphins and proboscis monkeys which have been recorded in KWNP.

“The uniqueness of KWNP is an important tool as a marketing point to promote KWNP to the outside world,” said Dr Abdul Rahman.

He was speaking at the state-level World Wetlands Day at KWNP yesterday.

“Apart from being the habitat to various species, the wetlands also act as a natural sponge that traps and slowly release surface water, preventing floods,” he said.

Dr Abdul Rahman said the new generation, particularly youths, must be well informed on the importance of wetlands.

On a related matter, he praised the participation of several corporate bodies such as Pertronas Dagangan, Fuji Xerox Asia and the Lion International Club in the planting of mangrove trees.

“We also would like to welcome the latest corporate body, Sarawak Energy Berhad, Naim Holding Berhad and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak which have pledged support for tree-planting efforts,” he added.

Earlier, State Forestry deputy director Said Gapar said the department was committed to preserve and protect the area, while promoting the areas to the masses.

“It is our wish that everyone realise their role towards the wetlands and come forward to assist especially in programmes such as tree-planting,” he said.

Also present was Natural Resources and Environment forest assistant chief Dr Khairul Naim Adham.