Research and Development

Sabah Forestry Department

30

Research and Development Natural Forest Ecology & Management The Establishment Of Seed Orchards For Selected Native Tree Species This project receives funding from both the Federal Government (under the 9th Malaysia Plan) and ITTO (International Tropical Timber Organisation). As of December 2008, 9 species have been planted out at the Lungmanis FR, where the orchards are located (Table 30.1). Table 30.1: Status of Seed Orchard establishment for 14 selected tree species Species

No. of trees marked

No. of localities

No. of families planted

Octomeles sumatrana Anthocephalus cadamba Terminalia copelandii Litsea cubeba Cinnamomum pentanoxylon Dyera costulata Dracontomelon dao Dryobalanops lanceolata Aquilaria malaccensis Cratoxylon formosum Lophopetalum multinervium Canarium ovatum Palaquim rostratum Duabanga mollucana

57 38 8 8 8 20 14 18 14 15 11 2 6 34

20 8 1 4 3 3 2 4 4 4 1 1 2 8

25 12 4 2 4 6 3 1 10

ITTO support for the project ended officially on October, 31st, 2008. In November, Dr. Ma Hwan Ok, ITTO Projects Manager for Reforestation & Forest Management, visited the project as part of a scheduled project monitoring trip to review project implementation and progress. Since the project had an unexpended amount of US$82,000, ITTO approved a project extension of 1 year without additional funding. Forest Dynamics Long term ecological research plots covering 36 ha that were established in the year 2000, to monitor the dynamics and floristic changes of 3 forest types in the Sepilok-Kabili Forest Reserve, was reassessed in 2008. A total of 24 ha were enumerated, and the remaining 12 ha is planned for 2009. The forest types identified co-varied with the distribution of soil type and landform. The lowland dipterocap forest overlying soils of the Silabukan association, the lokan association, and the maliau association are described as alluvial forest, sandstone forest and sandstone cuesta forest respectively. The data collected would support the Ecology Section’s study on the forest dynamics of selected Lowland mixed dipterocarp forests, whilst also complementing the Soil Science Section’s current research activities on estimating carbon stocking in natural forests.

Forest Restoration Restoration has become an important management strategy for the Sabah Forestry Department, and has inherently been incorporated as part of the Department’s forest cover conservation efforts. Rehabilitation activities such as the planting of indigenous trees attempts in re-establishing and enhancing forest structure and diversity. This “silvicultural” practice has become a common approach in mitigating the negative impacts of forest degradation, in a bid to restore forest system function and productivity. With RMK-9 funding from the Federal Ministry of Natural Resources, the FRC is expected to play a key role to support the Department’s effort, and continue research on the restoration of degraded peatswamp, heath, ultramafic and montane forests. These researchs are headed by the Ecology Section and the related studies are summarized below:i. Restoration of peatswamp vegetation destroyed by fires at Klias Forest Reserve Under the funds provided by the Ministry of NRE, the department maintains its initial planting trials of selected tree species which was set up with funds provided by Danida. Three and a half years after establishing the plot, the favorable response of some species on the drained peat, has in turn reduced the need for regular maintenance of the plot. About 59% of the initially planted seedlings have survived, and observed mortality of planted seedlings have stabilized. Species preferring the altered nature of the peat are Kapur Merah (Dyrobanalops beccarrii), Pulai Paya (Alstonia spatulata), Selangan Lima Urat (Hopea pentanervia), and Perupok Paya (Lophopetalum multinervium). In 2008, the Ecology Section established an additional 4 ha research plot to study the effects of peatswamp drainage on the growth and survival of selected native tree species. The study hopes to identify tree species that would grow on a variety of altered peatswamp sites where the groundwater, hence the peat substrate has deteriorated. Seven species have been planted. This includes Perupok Paya, Pulai Paya, Ramin Paya (Gonystylus bancanus), Kapur Paya (Dryobalanops rappa), Kapur Merah, Medang Katok (Stemonurus scorpioides), and Geronggang Paya (Cratoxylum arborescen). Census data at 5 months after planting indicated on average high survival (about 91%) of planted seedlings. Medang katok seedlings were found to suffer the highest mortality rates of the seven species planted. ii. Restoration of ultramafic forest destroyed by fires at Tawai Forest Reserve The department continues to observe and maintain the pilot plots along the Ruku Ruku river in the Tawai Forest Reserve, in order to demonstrate the growth and survivalship of the seven selected tree species. Of the two plots; site soil fertility and favourable growth conditions for the planted seedlings of one plot, was confounded with high mortality due to deer browsing. Early observations would indicate 5 of the 7 species planted were suited to the unique soil-type;

Research and Development

277


these being Gaharu (Aquilaria malaccensis), Sempilau Bukit (Gymnostoma sumatrana), Surian Wangi (Toona sureni), Selangan Lima Urat (Hopea pentanervia) and Nyatoh Sidang (Palaquium rostratum). The department aims to extend the species selection and site conditions in order to establish a better understanding of species ecological sites preferences; with the aim to facilitating future restoration efforts in degraded ultramafic forest habitats. iii. Restoration of montane forest destroyed by illegal encroachment at Crocker Range Forest Reserve Restoration on degraded montane were initiated in early November 2007 on an illegally encroached area adjacent to the abandoned SAFODA’s Pinus planting trial. About 924 seedlings were planted and seven tree species were selected based on the availability and suitability of the sites, i.e Gaharu (Aquilaria malaccensis), Surian Wangi (Toona sureni), Medang Bangking (Litsea cubeba), Pulai Bukit (Alstonia angustiloba), Seraya Banjutan (Shorea multiflora), Magas (Duabanga mollucana) and Menghilan (Agathis borneensis). In the last 10 months after planting, 98% of survival were recorded. However, it appeared that most seedlings do not look healthy and growth performance is found to be slow. Moreover, occurrence of rapid shoot die back were noted followed by single or multiple-coppice shoot developing either at the base or mid of still living stem sections. iv. Restoration of burnt vegetation on coastal sandstone hill at Siaunggau Forest Reserve The planting trials initiated at Siaunggau Forest Reserve is to demonstrate the growth and survivorship of several native tree species on previously Acacia-dominated stands. For the last nine years, a series of restoration trails were established using selected native tree species i.e. Sempilau Laut (Gymnostoma nobilis), Nyatoh Sidang (Palaquium leiocarpum), Melapi agama (Shorea agami), Selangan Lima Urat (Hopea pentanervia), Seraya Banjutan (Shorea multiflora), Seraya Lopa (Shorea parvistipulata), Seraya Langgai (Shorea beccariana), Nyatoh Sidang (Palaquium rostratum) and Menghilan (Agathis borneensis), were conducted. All species demonstrated favourable growth and survival. v. Tree phenological observations There was generally very poor flowering and fruiting of dipterocarps and non-dipterocarps tree species for the year 2008. In Sepilok-Kabili Forest Reserve aberrance phenological events occurred with some dipterocarps tree flowering 2-3 times during the year. Most of the tree observed to flower, were not either able to produce viable seeds, or were heavily predated on before reaching maturity. Pioneer trees such as laran, binuang and magas were observed to produce considerable fruit-set in 2008 as shown in Table 30.2.

Special Assignments & Activities Establishment of continuous forest inventory system for Deramakot and Tangkulap-Pinangah Forest Reserves The Silviculture Section continued to lead the establishment of the continuous forest inventory system (CFI) for Deramakot and Tangkulap-Pinangah (FMU 17A). This involved the remeasurement of ‘permanent inventory lines’ as scheduled in their respective Management Plans. These inventory lines are measured every 5 years in order to monitor the development of commercial timber stocking, and validate growth projections that were made for the purpose of yield regulation . During the year, permanent inventory lines were established for 10 compartments (Table 30.3). Table 30.3: Compartments for which permanent inventory lines were set up in 2008 FMU

Compartment No.

Deramakot

1, 9, 62, 105, 114

Tangkulap-Pinangah (FMU17A)

16, 31, 32, 33, 49

Forest restoration in the Mersuli Forest Reserve In 2007, the Silviculture Section was assigned to plan and carry out forest restoration within the Mersuli Forest Reserve, near Lahad Datu. About 420 ha (or 70 %) of the Mersuli Forest Reserve was encroached and illegally cultivated with agricultural crops. Site preparation began in April. As part of the restoration plan, 320 ha of oil palms were destroyed. Funding for this project was provided by a USA-based organization called Land Empowerment Animals & People (LEAP), as well as the Federal Government of Malaysia, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Assessment of log-fisher operations in the Malua Forest Reserve under RIL The Silviculture Section carried out an assessment of logfisher operations in the Malua Forest Reserve. It was the first time that this new technique of log extraction is employed in Sabah. Log-fishers have been found to be suitable for logging on steep terrain. In addition, it has the advantage of extended reach beyond that permitted for crawler tractors (i.e. 30 m). This feature reduces the need for skid trail construction, thereby reducing soil disturbance. However, the improved extraction rate may lead to greater residual stand damage. The operational cost of using the log-fisher was estimated to be about RM 492 ha-1. Timimbang Forest Reserve Management Plan The Silviculture Section was given the task to formulate a forest management plan for the Timimbang Forest Reserve (including VJR Botitian). This involved an area of about 11,000 ha. Field inventory was completed in November. The Plan is expected to be completed in June 2009.

Table 30.2: Record of fruiting events observed in 2008 Region East coast

Interior

278

Annual Report 2008

District Beluran Lahad Datu Kinabatangan Kunak Crocker Range Ranau, Pinangah Ranau, Pinangah, Tambunan

Species Octomeles sumatrana Neolamarckia cadamba Terminalia copelandii Dracontomelon dao Octomeles sumatrana Neolamarckia cadamba Duabangga moluccana

Vernacular

Family

Fruiting (month)

Binuang Laran Talisai paya Sengkuang Binuang Laran Magas

Dasticaceae Rubiaceae Combretaceae Anacardiaceae Dasticaceae Rubiaceae Sonneratiaceae

Jan-Feb Jan-Feb March-April March-April Jan-Feb Jan-Feb Jan-Feb


Sepilok Arboretum/Forest Conservation Daily routine/Activities at the Garden Routine works maintenance (cleaning/clearing, slashing, grass cutting, etc.) surrounding the main facilities of Sepilok Arboretum and the Arboretum boundary were carried out. These areas include Sepilok Arboretum Field Office, RDC trail (lakeside trail, pitta trail, belian trail, kingfisher trail and ridge trail) & Garden, Orchid garden, trail network of the Arboretum, and trail to Canopy Walkway. Routine work at the garden, includes weeding, watering, fertilizing, plant replacement, pest & diseases studies, labeling, and plants maintenance. RMK9 Biayaan Kerajaan Persekutuan (Pembangunan Kawasan Pemeliharaan Hutan) Rainforest Discovery Centre This federal government project is under the supervision of Dr. Robert C. Ong, which is directly under the Director’s office. Systematic arrangement of visitor centre (with proper tickets counter) and the garden pathway are in place. Construction of Tower Reception Centre in the vicinity of Sepilok Arboretum is in progress. The third canopy tower (the Hornbill tower) is now completed. Research activities - Field Works/Out-stations/Visits There were several out-station and field works (research work related to mangroves) in the year 2008 mainly in the area of Sandakan, Tawau, Kunak, Semporna, Tuaran, Putatan and Kota Kinabalu. Studies involved were mangroves vegetation survey, mangroves regeneration survey and collection of propagules/seeds for mangroves nursery. Research Assistant

involved in the mangroves project are Soinin Satman, Jamiss Aribin, Dauni Seligi and Lajius Ganang.

Aerial view of Sibyte mangroves Whereas the garden team lead by RA Jamirus Jumian made several out-stations and field works (i.e. collections of plants material & research work related to orchid garden development) in the year 2008 mainly in the districts of Ranau, Tambunan, Kota Kinabalu, Keningau, Tenom, Nabawan and Sook. The target area is mainly forest reserves. Up to December 2008, a total of 1,445 individual orchids (with 303 species) were collected and raised in the garden.

New record of Bulb-belliae orchids collected from Telupid areas


279


Environmental Education Unit Since its grand opening by the Prime Minister in August 2007, the RDC is fast becoming the centre of attraction among VIPs. This is a positive sign that the RDC could further develop as a prominent tourist destination in Sabah. However, Environmental Education remains the main focus of RDC. We received numerous school groups, not only locals but also international groups. We also participated in a few exhibitions that the department was involved in. The total number of visitors this year including student groups was 12,299. Of these, 8,466 were locals, 2,675 were foreigners and 1,158 were official visitors (non-paying). Total ticket collection was RM 51,581.00. Visitors mainly came during the weekends and public holidays. At present, local visitors exceed foreign tourists. This could be a good indicator that RDC is a popular weekend destination for the locals. In that sense, RDC also promotes domestic tourism. Overall, 2008 has been a fruitful and busy year at the RDC. EE Programme for students This year, 45 school groups, with a total of 2,791 students, accompanied by 307 teachers and parents participated in our EE programmes. Most of these programmes were conducted at the RDC and some at the Mangrove Discovery Centre, Sepilok Laut. October was the busiest month with 8 school groups, totalling 449 students and 51 accompanying teachers and parents. There were two international student groups, one from Japan and the other from Hong Kong. We also continued our environmental education exchange programme through TV conferencing with the Kiyosato Environmental Experiment Project (KEEP). Two sessions were held this year. A total of about 80 children (age: 1012 years) in Japan and in Sandakan participated in the two sessions in February and June. The EERace: Teachers’ Course in Environmental Education Although we planned to organise two EERaces this year, we only managed to have one on the 28th April to the 3rd of May, due to many major events that took place at the RDC. Thirty two teachers from Sandakan were trained during this course. This Course was co-organised by Forestry (RDC),

Wildlife Department, Education Department (PPD Sandakan), HUTAN and Reef Guardian. Up to now, 734 teachers have been trained in Environmental Education through our courses. World Environment Day (WED) 2008 WED was celebrated on a smaller scale this year due to the overwhelming number of big events hosted by SFD at the RDC. Activities involved a colouring competition for primary and secondary school students and an open treasure hunt for visitors. About 200 people participated in the event. Malaysian Environmental Education Conference Another big event we organised this year was the Malaysian Environmental Education Conference or my.EE.conference. This conference was co-organised by Sabah Forestry Department, Environmental Protection Department, WWF Malaysia, Sabah Wildlife Department, Sabah Education Department, HUTAN and Sabah Parks. The RDC played the key role on behalf of the department. A total of 92 delegates and 30 speakers participated in the 4 day-3 night conference from the 17th to the 20th of November, 2008. The event took place at the RDC. Post conference tours were held at Tabin Wildlife Reserve, the Mangrove Discovery Centre (MDC) at Sepilok Laut and a few villages nearby the MDC in the Sandakan harbour. Other events we were involved in Besides events organised by the EE Unit and the department, we were also involved in the Sekolah Rakan Alam Sekitar or SERASI and Sekolah LESTARI-Anugerah Alam Sekitar. Bernadette Joeman was appointed as one of the judges for the National Level Awards. We were also involved in a few exhibitions, namely the Sabah Development Corridor at Sepanggar Port and the Ulu Segama-Malua exhibition at Pacific Sutera, Kota Kinabalu. In June, RDC participated in the Forest Research Centre (FRC) Open Day. Among the attractions at RDC were tree climbing, paddle-boat rides, the Plant Discovery Garden and the Rainforest Discovery Trail. Zoom Malaysia, a domestic tourism campaign was launched at the RDC on the 29th of November by the Federal Minister of Tourism, Datuk Azalina Othman Said. At the same time, the Sandakan Bird Fair was also held for two days. RDC staff were involved hands-on in both the events.

EEP for Kindergarten

Hands-on games not only make learning fun for these young children, but it helps them better understand the environmental message we are trying to get across.

280

Annual Report 2008

At RDC, staffs are trained to interact with children of all ages in order to make their learning experience a memorable one.


EEP for Primary School

Even accompanying teachers made some new discoveries at the RDC.

For these SK Taman Rimba students, ‘Bingo’ game in the Plant Discovery Garden was a fun way to learn about plants.

EEP for Secondary school SMK Jambatan Putih, Tawau learning about fish farming at Kg. Assam, Sepilok Laut

Sepilok Junior Rangers activities in 2008

Discovering the environment with the help of a friend is a lot of fun

Regular EE programmes for these young Rangers are a very important continuous effort in educating them about the environment around them.


281


World Environmental Day (WED) 2008

World Environment Day (WED) celebration at the RDC. Besides treasure hunts, many children participated in the colouring and drawing competition.

The RDC participated in the World Environment Day 5-day long programme organised by HUTAN in Sukau. Picture shows a UPM student undergoing practical training at RDC, showing some hands-on activities to the children.

Other Events We Were Involved In

Bernadette Joeman with the SERASI judges team for the final round at SMK Lohan, Ranau

Bernadette Joeman at the LESTARI training for judges at the National Level competition

Other Events We Were Involved In

IPS trainees playing an ice-breaking environmental game called “Who am I?”

282

Annual Report 2008

The RDC hosted and trained 5 UPM students on practical attachment in 2008.


Malaysian Environmental Education Conference 2008 (MEEC)

Sepilok Jr. Rangers perform a song called ‘Heal the World’ during the opening of the conference

YB. Datuk Elron Alfred Angin (Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment) signs and puts his palm print on the banner in support of the pledge to look after the environment

Bernadette Joeman at the LESTARI training for judges in the National Level competition

Kitchen waste composting workshop

Post-conference tour: This was no ordinary tour. Participants got a chance to learn hands-on daily regarding activities of the villages such as making nipah thatch

Post-conference trip also included a trip to Tabin Wildlife Reserve at Tabin’s Lipad mud volcano

Environmental Education games Workshop was conducted by Ms. Jocelyn Maluda of the Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre

The Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID) conducted the workshop on water quality monitoring Research and Development

283


Environmental Education Programme conducted in 2008 Date

Environmental Education Programme

12 Jan

• EE Programme for Arima Senior High School, Sanda City, Japan. (35 students, 3 teachers).

21 Jan

• EE Programme Sepilok Jr. Ranger. (12 students).

21 Jan

• EE Programme for Tabika KEMAS Sepilok. (25 children, 2 teachers).

4 Feb

• EE Pogramme for SMK Sandakan. (25 students, 1 teacher).

th st st

th

9 - 11 Feb th

th

• Exchange Programme with Kiyosato Environmental Experiment Project, Japan. (21 Sepilok Jr. Ranger, 8 facilitators).

13 , 20 & 27 Feb • Organised a series of activity on Treasure Hunt for trainees from Program Latihan Khidmat Negara (PLKN). (345 trainee, 26 trainer). th

th

th

24th Feb

• EE Programme from SMK Elopura Bestari. (200 students, 2 teachers).

1st Mar

• EE Programme for SK Taman Rimba, Sandakan (40 students, 4 teachers)

9th Mar

• EE Programme for SM Yu Yuan. (12 students, 2 teachers).

12th Mar

• EE Programme for University Malaysia Sabah, UMS, (27 students, 3 lecturers).

25th Mar

• Charity work from SMK Sandakan. (15 students, 2 teachers).

29th Mar

• EE Programme for SMK Muhibbah. (42 students, 3 teachers).

19 April

• EE Programme for SMK Agama Sandakan. (100 students, 10 teachers).

22 April

• EE Programme for Hong Kong International School, lead by Megah Travel Sdn. Bhd. (122 students, 12 teachers).

th

nd

7 , 14 & 28 May • Organised a series of activity on Treasure Hunt for trainees from Program Latihan Khidmat Negara (PLKN). (345 trainee, 26 trainers). th

th

th

10th May

• EE Programme for St. Michael Church. (39 kids, 11 facilitators)

26 May

• EE Programme for SM Sung Siew. (40 students, 1 teachers).

th

27 May th

3rd - 5th June 20th - 22nd June 21 June st

• EE Programme for Tadika Kasih Sayang DORKAS. (85 childrens, 30 adults). • EE Programme for SMK Jambatan Putih, Tawau. This group also trekking to Sepilok Laut Receptions Centre for mangrove activity. (53 students, 7 teachers). • Exchange Programme with Kiyosato Environmental Experiment Project, Japan. (20 Sepilok Jr. Ranger, 10 facilitators). • Charity work and EE Programme with SMK Perempuan, Sandakan. (70 students, 1 teacher).

5 July

• EE Programme for SK St. Monica (Good Shepherd Discovery Club). (67 students, 14 teachers).

26 July

• EE Programme for SMK Muhibbah, co-organised with Information Department, Sandakan (20 students, 10 teachers).

26 July

• EE Programme for SJK © Yuk Choi. (90 students, 26 teachers).

28 July

• EE Programme for SMK Tongod. (36 students, 4 teachers).

1st Aug

• EE Programme for SMK Beluran. (50 students, 7 teachers).

2 Aug

• EE Programme for SK Kg. Pertanian. (35 students, 5 teachers).

20 Aug

• EE Programme for SMK Libaran. (50 students, 4 teachers).

27 Aug

• EE Programme for Taski Abim. (81 kids, 7 teachers).

30 Aug

• EE Programme for SK Muhibbah. (45 students, 2 teachers).

9 Sept

• Talk on ‘A Guide to Choosing Your Career’ for SMK St. Michael. (40 students, 6 teachers).

16 Sept

• EE Programme for SK Chung Hwa, Kota Bharu, Kelantan. (72 students, 9 teachers).

th

th th th

nd

th th th

th

th

7th Oct

• EE Programme for Tabika Kemas Kg. Dandulit. (16 kids, 2 teachers)

8th Oct

• EE Programme for Tabika Kemas Rancangan Luboh. (27 kids, 2 teachers)

16th Oct

• EE Programme for SK Karamunting. (101 students, 12 teachers).

24th Oct

• EE Programme for SM Yu Yuan. (85 students, 8 teachers).

25th Oct

• EE Programme for Island School in Sandakan – Dear Camp of UNICEF. (101 students, 14 teachers).

28th Oct

• EE Programme for SK St. Mary’s Bandar. (35 students, 3 teachers).

29th Oct

• EE Programme for Sk Sg. Anib 1. Students UPSR. (34 students, 6 teachers).

30th Oct

• EE Programme for SMK Elopura II. (50 students, 4 teachers).

20 Nov

• EE Programme for Girl Guide Sabah. Educational visit in conjunction with Pesta Pandu Puteri Tunas 2008, Sabah Level.

th

(43 students, 12 teachers) 5 - 9 Dec th

284

th

• The BRATS: Young Journalist STAR program at RDC & MDC. (40 students, 7 facilitators)

Annual Report 2008


Special interest groups to RDC in 2008 Date

Events

23rd Jan

A guided tour to the RDC for the Yang Di Pertuan Agong of Malaysia’s flight crew. (Guided by Bernadette & Hubert).

1st Feb

The US Ambassador to Malaysia (James Keith) visited the RDC (Guided by Datuk Sam Mannan, Hubert & Bernadette).

15 Feb

Borneon Biodiversity & Ecosystem Conservation Programme (BBEC II) CTA and 4 others visited RDC.

1st Mar

i. Perbadanan Hidupan Liar & Taman Negara Johor. (Guided by Bernadette & Hubert). ii. Phillipine group.

25th Mar

Sarawak group on educational tour to RDC (47 participants).

28th Mar

BBEC officials visit RDC.

15 Apr

Peninsular Malaysia Forestry Department group visits RDC.

th

th

1 May

Anglican Church group visit.

16th May

BBEC officials visit RDC.

19th May

EE Programme for IKEA staff, Peninsula Malaysia. (20 participants).

st

1 June

Prime Minister & wife visit the RDC in preparation for “Hutan Malaysia”

1st July

Visit by former Chief Minister of Sabah, Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat.

15th July

Educational visit by PACOS (10 staff).

16th July

JICA’s Mr. Arasaki & Ms. Fujita visit RDC.

22 July

5 Sarawak Forestry Department staff visit RDC.

24 July

40 officers of Jabatan Pertanian visited RDC.

6th Aug

23 Japanese teachers visited RDC.

7 Aug

13 Japanese teachers visited RDC.

st

nd th

th

9 Aug

4 officers from Landskap Negara did a recce for Hutan Malaysia Festival.

15th Aug

Visit by senior citizens group from Sandakan.

23 Aug

Educational visit from Rumah Warga Tua, Sandakan. (12 adults).

4 Sept

Mr. Bill Wiggin (Shadow Minister for Agriculture & Fisheries UK), visited the RDC.

th

rd

th

Workshops, seminars, courses, visits and others attended by staff Date 14 -16 Jan th

th

Events Traditional Knowlegde Workshop

Place Kuala Lumpur

Who attended Bernadette Joeman

21st Jan

Santapan bersama Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Yang Dewan Hakka, Sandakan DiPertuan Agong Malaysia

Bernadette Joeman G. Hubert Petol

29th Jan

Prepared posters and participated in the Sabah Development Sepanggar Port, Corridor (SDC) exhibition Kota Kinabalu

Bernadette Joeman G. Hubert Petol

3rd Mar

BBEC Public Awareness Component Workshop

Kota Kinabalu

Bernadette Joeman

Staff study trip to prepare for EERace III

Lankayan Island, Sandakan All education staff of RDC

19 - 20 Mar th

th

6th -10th Apr

Kursus Penilai Kebangsaan Sekolah Lestari, Anugerah Alam Hotel Legacy, Malacca Sekitar

Bernadette Joeman

29th July

ICT Seminar

Mayliza Good Loraiti Lolin@Cecilia

14th Aug

Prepared posters and participated in the Ulu Segama-Malua Pacific Sutera Hotel, exhibition Kota Kinabalu

G. Hubert Petol Sho Arasaki Loraiti Lolin@Cecilia Nur Hussaira Hussien (volunteer)

29th Nov

Launching of Zoom Malaysia

All RDC staff involved

Sabah Hotel, Sandakan

RDC

Talks, seminar &courses conducted in 2008 by RDC staff Date 17 April th

28th April – 3rd May

Events Introduction to EE

Place Deramakot FR

For Who IPS trainees

EERace III: Kursus Pendidikan Alam Sekitar Untuk Guru- RDC & Mangrove Discovery 32 Secondary School Teachers from guru. Centre (MDC), Sepilok Laut Sandakan


285


Plant Diversity Programme Systematic Botany Tree Flora of Sabah and Sarawak (TFSS) Project This is a national collaborative project between the Sabah and Sarawak Forestry Departments and Forest Research Institute of Malaysia, which commenced in 1992. The objectives of the project are to document and update taxonomic status of all tree species that occur in Sabah and Sarawak as well as to upgrade local expertise in plant taxonomic research. By the end of 2008, six (6) volumes of the flora containing 72 families were published. The sixth volume was published in 2007, which contains four tree families (Cunoniaceae, Hernandiaceae, Meliaceae and Polygalaceae) comprising 18 genera and 180 species. Of these 180 species, 22 taxa (species, subspecies and varieties are new to science). So far the project has recorded 1,725 species and 268 genera from Borneo. Of these, 432 species are endemic to Sabah and Sarawak (or Borneo). Botanists involved in the project are John B. Sugau (Theaceae), Joan T. Pereira (Rothmannia, Rubiaceae) and Suzana Sabran (Ternstroemia, Theaceae). As part of the activities under TFSS, one botanical expedition to Mt. Wullersdorf and Mt Pock Forest Reserves was organized in May 2008. Short botanical trips to various places were made subsequently to this expedition, namely, Kinabalu Park (Mesilau) and Crocker Range (Rafflesia FR and Sub-station Alab). Botanical Research & Herbarium Management System (BRAHMS) BRAHMS is an information system for managing botanical and herbarium data. Data entry of herbarium specimens commenced on 20th Jan 1998, following the format used by FRIM. Three contract personnel were engaged and paid by the state-funded project, ‘Penubuhan Rangkaian Pangkalan data Biodiversiti Sabah’ to speed up the data entry. Up to the end of 2008, most of the Sabah collection (112,892) records have been imported into BRAHMS database proper. Meanwhile, 55,000 records from outside of Sabah have been entered into BRAHMS-RDE file, thereafter the data will be cleaned and imported to the database proper. Collection And Identification Of Orchid Specimens For Sandakan And Sabah Parks Herbaria This project commenced in 2003 and aims to collect orchid specimens from Sabah and update their identification. This will eventually contribute to the documentation of orchid flora and further, the development of an orchid database for Sabah. Identification work has been assigned to Mr. Anthony Lamb, a Horticulturist and Botanical Advisor. A total of 310 orchid specimens at the Sandakan Herbarium have been identified for the year 2008. Projek Pengurusan Dan Pemuliharaan Hutan Paya Laut Secara Berkekalan Di Sabah: Komponen Penyelidikan dan Pembangunan - Inventory Flora Bakau This project aims to produce a management plan for the sustainable management and conservation of mangroves in Sabah. One of the components of this project is to carry out an inventory of the mangrove flora in Sabah. The project commenced in 2008. Up to the end of 2008, seven mangrove forest reserves, namely, Abai, Balambangan, Batu Mapun VJR, Kuala Segama & Kuala Meruap, Sulaman Lake, Tawau, Trusan Kinabatangan have been surveyed.

Heart of Borneo Project (HoB)–and Botanical Expedition This project begun in 2008 and aims to ensure the effective management of forest resources and conservation of a network of protected areas, productive forests and other sustainable land-uses within an area (called “Heart of Borneo”). Scientific expeditions have been organized to inventorise selected areas, including related corridor/buffer to identify conservation targets. By the end of 2008, four forest reserves, namely, Kuamas, Lipaso, Tawai and Ulu Telupid within the so called ‘Telupid Complex’ have been surveyed. Scientific Visitors i. Yahud Hj. Wat, Sarawak Forestry Department, Sarawak (TFSS) ii. Ian Turner, RBG Kew, England (Annonaceae) iii. Ko Harada, Echime University, Japan (Research) iv. Kohjyu Kishimoto, Echime University, Japan (Research) v. George Staples, Herbarium Singapore Bot. Garden (Convulvulaceae) vi. S.K. Ganesan, National Park Board, Singapore (Annonaceae) vii. Ng Tze Peng, National Park Board, Singapore (Annonaceae) viii. Puziah Hashim, SIRIM, Malaysia (Research) ix. Sarifah Rejab, SIRIM, Malaysia (Research) x. Yoshihiro Nakashima, Tabin (Research) Status Of The Herbarium Holdings i. Herbarium holdings: Number of accessions

189,724

Number of specimen sheets

263,015

Number of spirit collections

3,799

Number of carpological collection

1,724

ii. Exchange Position: Herbarium Herbarium, Forestry Department, Brunei Herbarium, Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, UK Herbarium, Forest Research Institute of Malaysia Herbarium, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK National Herbarium Nederland, Leiden, The Nederland Herbarium, Sarawak Forestry Department Herbarium, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore Herbarium Borneensis, Universiti Malaysia Sabah Herbarium, New South Wales (NWS), Australia Total

Annual Report 2008

75 312 283 77 231 171 -

78 29 959 32 52 4

1,202

1,154

iii. Number of specimens sent on loan Herbarium Herbarium, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, UK Herbarium, Forest Research Institute of Malaysia National Herbarium Nederland, Leiden, The Nederland Herbarium, Missouri Botanical Gardens Aberdeen Herbarium, Sarawak Forestry Department Herbarium Borneensis, Universiti Malaysia Sabah Herbarium, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore Total

286

Specimens Specimens Sent Received

No. of Specimens Sent 162 12 142 87 107 6 24 78 618


Insect Diversity Programme Research and Activities Comparison of Biodiversity in Various Habitat Types in Sabah by using Insects as Indicators This is an on-going project comparing the biodiversity mainly in primary forests, logged forests, tree plantations, oil palm plantations, etc. in Sabah using insects (e.g. moth/ butterfly fauna) as bioindicators. It is also done in collaboration with scientists overseas particularly those from the United Kingdom, at Danum Valley and elsewhere. Impacts of forest conversion and fragmentation are being studied.

and biogeography of various islands in Sabah, in relation to Borneo mainland, by using moths as indicators. The diversity will be measured using Williams Alpha, and compared by using Preston’s coefficient of faunal resemblance.

Diversity of Fireflies in Mangrove and Riverine Forests of Sabah Fireflies are an important element in eco-tourism. This project looks at the taxonomy, distribution, abundance, biology and

The Moon Moth (Actias maenas Doubleday)

The large, charismatic firefly, Lychnuris opaca from Kionsom (Picture by Chey Vun Khen) display trees of the firefly species along the mangrove and riverine forests of Sabah. Gregarious fireflies as well as those which occur singly are being studied. Biodiversity and Biogeography Studies between Sabah Islands and Mainland Sabah (as indicated by the Moth Fauna) This on-going study is conducted to investigate the biodiversity

Forest Insect Museum The Forest Insect Museum in the Entomology Section houses the biggest insect collection in Sabah with more than 133,000 mounted specimens and 13,300 identified species by the end of 2008. The collection is expanding, especially on moths (with additional montane specimens from the Moths of Mount Kinabalu project in collaboration with the University of York), Isoptera, Coleoptera and Formicidae. The Museum is a reference centre for various researchers and students from both local and foreign institutions. Construction of a new fire-proof insect museum with steel compactor system is underway under the 9th Malaysia Plan.

Plantation Silviculture Programme Plantation The Forest Plantation Section was involved in various research activities in 2008. The final assessment for the “Gaharu Project: Inducement of Gaharu for Commercial Production Through Patented Technology” has been carried out in December 2008. Treated trees show signs of resin formation Under the RMK-9 state project, an area of 4 hectares in Segaliud Lokan Forest Reserve has been planted with Paraserianthes falcataria. In the same year as a part of the RMK-9 federal project, 4 Aquilaria sp. research plots with a total area of 0.5 hectare have been established in Gum Gum Forest Reserve and Lungmanis Forest Reserve. These research plots will be used to facilitate further research on Gaharu silvicultural treatment and inoculation technique.

Gaharu tree showing signs of resin formation Research and Development

287


(Above) A study tour to Gum Gum Forest Reserve by students from University Malaysia Sabah.(Left) (Left) Paraserianthes falcataria seedlings planted in Segaliud Lokan Forest Reserve

Inventories had been carried on various plots throughout the year in Kolapis A, Kota Marudu, Kundasang, and Sook. Summary of growth assessments as of 2008 is shown in the Table 30.4 below. Table 30.4: Summary of plantation species trials assessment as of 2008

288

R.P No.

Plot No.

Location

Species

Date Planted

Spacing (m)

Height (m)

Hgt MAI (m/yr)

Diameter (cm)

Dbh MAI (cm/yr)

121

B

Mandahan

Dryobalanops lanceolata

2004

5.00 X 5.00

3.76

0.94

2.6

0.65

121

BA

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

36.09

0.82

64.82

1.47

121

BB

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

36.44

0.83

69.83

1.59

121

BC

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

33.05

0.75

57.61

1.31

121

BD

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

41.97

0.95

80.76

1.84

121

BE

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

37.43

0.85

61.62

1.4

121

BF

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

39.28

0.89

87.67

1.99

121

BG

Mandahan


1964

13.0 X 5.50

41.36

0.94

72.75

1.65

121

A

Mandahan


2004

3.00 x 3.00

4.48

1.12

3.21

0.8

76

A

Kota Marudu

Tectona grandis

1920

3.00 x 3.00

36.23

0.41

63.72

0.72

76

B

Kota Marudu

Tectona grandis

1920

3.00 x 3.00

32.02

0.36

69.84

0.79

75

12

Kundasang

Pinus patula

1963

2.44 x 2.44

25.66

0.57

53.38

1.19

75

13

Kundasang

Pinus merkusii

1963

2.44 x 2.44

31.92

0.71

48.51

1.08

75

15

Kundasang

Pinus kesiya

1963

2.44 x 2.44

24.61

0.55

45.05

1

75

16

Kundasang

Pinus kesiya

1963

2.44 x 2.44

24.44

0.54

54.35

1.21

75

17

Kundasang

Pinus insularis

1963

2.44 x 2.44

26.6

0.59

50.29

1.14

75

18

Kundasang

Pinus elliottii

1963

2.44 x 2.44

13.28

0.3

23.74

0.53

75

19

Kundasang

Pinus occidentalis

1963

2.44 x 2.44

23.94

0.53

44

0.98

1997(1)

Kundasang

Araucaria cunninghamii

1997

5.00 x 5.00

7.66

0.7

13.67

1.24

75B

1

Kundasang


1964

2.44x2.44

18.47

0.42

46.3

1.05

75B

2

Kundasang

Pinus caribaea

1964

2.44x2.44

27.87

0.63

39.72

0.9

Annual Report 2008


.....continued R.P No.

Plot No.

Location

Species

Date Planted

Spacing (m)

Height (m)

Hgt MAI (m/yr)

Diameter (cm)

Dbh MAI (cm/yr)

146

2A

Sosopodon

Pinus caribaea

1967

2.44x2.44

34.14

0.83

64.28

1.57

Sosopodon

Melaleuca cajuputi

1964

2.44x2.44

15.41

0.35

30.8

0.7

Rp146

94

Sosopodon


1994

5.00x10.00

6.22

0.44

9.86

0.7

Rp146

1A/1

Sosopodon

Pinus caribaea

1967

2.44x2.44

29.45

0.72

60.56

1.48

Rp146

2B

Sosopodon

Pinus caribaea

1964

2.44x2.44

33.21

0.75

46.2

1.05

Rp146

1A2/2L

Sosopodon


1964

2.44x2.44

35.61

0.81

49.8

1.13

Rp146

2J

Sosopodon

Pinus caribaea

1964

2.44x2.44

27.02

0.61

45.62

1.04

Jln. Victor

Shorea parvifolia

1991

4.00x5.00

14.26

0.84

11.8

0.69

91D 90A

Sg. Salid

Aquilaria malaccensis

1990

3.00x4.00

15.66

0.87

22.79

1.27

92C3

Ext Kpt 93G


1992

2.00x5.00

11.21

0.7

12.29

0.77

91A

Jln. Matius

Maesopsis eminii

1991

2.00x3.00

26.29

1.55

21.14

1.24

92C2

Ext Kpt 73G

Acacia mangium

1992

2.00x5.00

30.65

1.92

15.95

1

92C2

Ext Kpt 73G

Acacia mangium

1992

2.00x5.00

28.92

1.81

20.85

1.3

90B

Jln. Madu

Acacia mangium

1990

2.00x3.00

39.38

2.19

24.4

1.36

90B

Jln. Madu

Acacia mangium

1990

2.00x3.00

34.43

1.91

25.53

1.42

91B11

Jln. Madu


1991

3.00x3.00

13.73

0.81

17.07

1

91B11

Jln. Madu


1991

3.00x3.00

15.73

0.93

17.1

1.01

91B3

Jln. Madu

Acacia mangium

1991

3.00x3.00

21.37

1.26

15.67

0.92

91B3

Jln. Madu

Acacia mangium

1991

3.00x3.00

22.95

1.35

16.94

1

92C1

Sook

Acacia mangium

1992

2.00x5.00

32.48

2.03

19.1

1.19

92C1

Sook

Acacia mangium

1992

2.00x5.00

29.62

1.85

18.33

1.15

95B

Jln. Victor

Shorea leprosula

1995

3.00x3.00

7.55

0.58

9

0.69 0.62

95B

Jln. Victor

Shorea leprosula

1995

3.00x3.00

5.44

0.42

8.04

155/01

Km. 46 Tunggol


1968

2.44x2.44

17.86

0.45

24.11

0.6

155/02

Km. 46 Tunggol

Pinus caribaea

1968

2.44x2.44

14.25

0.36

24.43

0.61

155/05

Km. 46 Tunggol

Pinus caribaea

1968

2.44x2.44

20.89

0.52

25.89

0.65

155/08

Km. 46 Tunggol

Cruptomeria japanica

1968

2.44x2.44

6.43

0.16

12.13

0.3

1

Rep1

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

4.00x4.00

3.19

1.06

3.52

1.17

1

Rep2

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

4.00x5.00

3.02

1.01

3.46

1.15

1

Rep3

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x5.00

2.4

0.8

2.8

0.93

1

Rep4

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x6.00

2.37

0.79

2.97

0.99

1

Rep5

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x8.00

2.51

0.84

3.61

1.2

2

Rep1

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

4.00x4.00

2.78

0.93

3.89

1.3

2

Rep2

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

4.00x5.00

2.15

0.72

2.39

0.8

2

Rep3

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x5.00

1.74

0.58

2.32

0.77

2

Rep4

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x6.00

3.04

1.01

3.93

1.31

2

Rep5

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x8.00

1.71

0.57

1.6

0.53

3

Rep1

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

4.00x4.00

2.16

0.72

2.73

0.91

3

Rep2

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

4.00x5.00

1.9

0.63

2.35

0.78

3

Rep3

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x5.00

2.1

0.7

1.83

0.61

3

Rep4

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x6.00

0.89

0.3

1.3

0.43

3

Rep5

Kolapis A

Dyera costulata

2005

5.00x8.00

1.27

0.42

1.3

0.43

1

Rep1

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

4.00x4.00

4.33

1.44

4.79

1.6

1

Rep2

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

4.00x5.00

4.54

1.51

5.73

1.91

1

Rep3

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x5.00

1.92

0.64

2.63

0.88

1

Rep4

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x6.00

2.1

0.7

2.41

0.8

1

Rep5

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x8.00

4.16

1.39

4.74

1.58

2

Rep1

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

4.00x4.00

3.05

1.02

3.73

1.24


289


.....continued R.P No.

Plot No.

Location

Species

Date Planted

Spacing (m)

Height (m)

Hgt MAI (m/yr)

Diameter (cm)

Dbh MAI (cm/yr)

2

Rep2

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

4.00x5.00

8.87

2.96

12.45

4.15

2

Rep3

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x5.00

10.35

3.45

14.6

4.87

2

Rep4

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x6.00

7.32

2.44

8.95

2.98

2

Rep5

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x8.00

7.69

2.56

9.81

3.27

3

Rep1

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

4.00x4.00

7.02

2.34

9.77

3.26

3

Rep2

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

4.00x5.00

5.61

1.87

7

2.33

3

Rep3

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x5.00

3.23

1.08

3.91

1.3

3

Rep4

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x6.00

2.64

0.88

3.47

1.16

3

Rep5

Kolapis A

Octomeles sumatrana

2005

5.00x8.00

2.09

0.7

2.18

0.73

95D

Jln. Gipal

Casuarina nobilis

1997

8.00x8.00

10.87

0.99

11.7

1.06

122C

Batu 19, Jln Keningau

Pinus caribaea

1968

2.44x2.44

38.28

0.96

28.94

0.72

98A/1

Ext (73G)

Cinnamomum burmannii

1998

3.00x3.00

8.36

0.84

8.16

0.82

98A/2

Ext (73G)

Cinnamomum burmannii

1998

3.00x3.00

7.71

0.77

8.15

0.82

98A/B3(1)

Ext (73G)


1999

3.00x3.00

9.93

1.1

11.95

1.33

98A/B3(2)

Ext (73G)


1999

3.00x3.00

10.4

1.16

13.79

1.53

92F

Jln. Madu

Tectona grandis

1992

2.00x5.00

9.08

0.57

11.72

0.73

98A/B2(1)

Ext (73G)

Shorea argentifolia

1998

3.00x3.00

6.56

0.66

7.37

0.74

98A/B2(2)

Ext (73G)

Shorea argentifolia

1998

3.00x3.00

4.73

0.47

5.77

0.58

92F1

Jln. Victor

Tectona grandis

1993

3.00x5.00

7.16

0.48

9.86

0.66

Agroforestry Research Activites Growth and yield of intercropping high-value timber species with oil palm Annual measurement activity for timber species continued in June. The FFB data was collected twice a month. The FFB production in a monocrop system is significantly higher compared to the intercropped system in the 8th production year (Chart 30.1).

Chart 30.1: Yield of fresh fruit bunches (FFB) (t/hectare) in the 8th production year

290

Annual Report 2008


Project E-Science (Provenance and progeny trial of Calamus subinermis) The objectives of this research is to assess the survival and growth performance of the 14-year-old provenance cum progeny trials of Calamus subinermis rotan in three different sites namely Kolapis A (a logged-over forest), Segaliud Lokan (Acacia mangium plantation) and Sook (scrub dominated by Baeckia frustescens) in Sabah, Malaysia. High survival percentage (more than 88%) was observed in Sook while high mortality percentage (more than 60%) was observed in Kolapis A and Segaliud Lokan. The mean annual growth rate of C. subinermis was 1.47 m/y, 3.72 m/y and 4.09 m/y in Sook, Segaliud Lokan and Kolapis A respectively. The differences in growth rate between sites and provenances indicated that soil type, planting distance and support tree at different site affected the overall performance of C. subinermis. The future breeding of C. subinermis will be concentrated on rattans which have two superior morphological traits i.e with thornless leaf sheath and multiple aerial stem. This project ended in December 2008. Terminal report was submitted to MOSTI.

(Left to right) Multiple aerial stem; Leaf sheath with thorns and thornless leaf sheath Potential of planting Jatropha curcas as an agroforestry crop This project is funded under Projek Perhutanan Masyarakat Fund (PPM). A 5 ha agroforestry research plot was established in Segaliud Lokan Forest Reserve in December 2008.The objectives of the research are to test the capability of Jatropha curcas to grow under an intercropping system, to measure the fruit production of Jatropha curcas under intercropping system and to determine the effect of pruning towards fruit production of Jatropha curcas. Four tree species namely gaharu (Aquilaria malaccensis), Kapur paji (Dryobalanops lanceolata), laran (Neolamarckia cadamba) and kapur merah (Dryobalanops beccarii) were selected for this research based on their fast growing characteristics and availability of planting materials.

Jatropha curcas

Tree Breeding and Seed Establishment Programme Tree Breeding Research Activities i. Genetic improvement of the pioneers namely Octomeles sumatrana (binuang) & Neolamarckia cadamba (laran) – RMK9 project D11 0200 0014 Provenance Trials • Binuang There were significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) in the height and dbh growth performance of binuang at the age of 3 years in

both KTS Plantation and Kolapis A (Chart 30.1). In KTS the top performer in both height and dbh was the ex Segaliud(2) with 11.81 m and 12.47 cm respectively. In Kolapis A, the Kolapis A(3) and Sg. Babakang (1) seedlots scored top in both height and dbh with 9.41 m and 10.79 cm respectively. As of the previous year, in KTS, the poorest performer in terms of height and dbh was Sg. Meliau with 7.82 m and 8.10 cm respectively. Although it was the top performer in KTS, the Kolapis A(2) was noted as the worst performer in height (a mere 7.15 m) in Kolapis A. Meanwhile, Sg Babakang(3) had the lowest mean dbh in Kolapis A with only 8.48 cm. Monitoring of plots continue.


291


Chart 30.2: Growth performance of Binuang at 4 years in Kolapis A and KTS (with standard error)

4-year-old Binuang in Kolapis A

292

Annual Report 2008

4-year-old Binuang in KTS (Replicate 4)


There were also significant differences (P