TUARAN (Sabah, Malaysia), Sept 28 – The Tuaran district made history by securing a Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) achievement after successfully planting 10,000 Tangkol trees simultaneously in conjunction with the district-level World Rivers Day celebration yesterday.
Tuaran Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau, said the groundbreaking initiative builds upon the Earth Day programme held in April.
“Today’s programme involved participation from various groups, particularly schools, which were given a central role in the early efforts to protect our rivers. The greatest benefit is awareness – that we must all take responsibility for our rivers,” he told the media after officiating the event at the Tamparuli Club Recreation Centre.
He added that the initiative began with schools and would later be extended to local communities, including village heads and grassroots organisations.
“The Tangkol trees were planted in accordance with guidelines set by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, which require a five-metre distance from the riverbank. We hope this programme will continue annually until all 15 rivers in Tuaran are restored to their pristine condition, enabling fish species to thrive sustainably,” he explained.
Beyond river conservation, Madius also highlighted the importance of cultivating a Zero Waste culture.
“This is a small step, but we hope it will grow to become a district policy, particularly in organising official government events. At the same time, we aim to raise awareness on hill-cutting activities and rubber replanting, in collaboration with the Sabah Rubber Industry Board and other agencies, to establish more environmentally sustainable practices,” he added.
The programme spanned 15 locations and involved the participation of 45 schools across Tuaran district.
Also present were Tuaran District Officer Herman Tungigging; Tamparuli Sub-District Assistant District Officer Hennevy W. Harry; District Education Officer Awang Seman Ag Tahir; and Shopee Malaysia’s Director of External Affairs, Nik Emir Din Nik Mohamed Din. — Jabatan Penerangan.
