The Lingkabau Forest Reserve boasts incredible biodiversity; it’s home to endangered sun bears, clouded leopards, pangolins, and civet cats, just to name a few species. Near this natural treasure is the village of Gana, a settlement created in the late 1990s when the government forced residents of 10 villages across the region of Sabah to relocate. Gana’s residents are committed to protecting the forest from logging, yet often struggle with their own livelihoods. 

A new Seacology project aims to both improve the community’s ability to implement more productive small-scale farming, and encourage the stewardship of their protected forest. It supports the creation of trail maps, markers, and a hiking shelter; as well as vital community infrastructure such as greenhouses, water tanks, and irrigation systems. Our affiliate Seacology Japan is fully funding this project, ensuring that both Gana Village and the Lingkabau Forest Reserve will thrive.

The gift from Seacology Japan honors the memory of Masayuki Kishimoto, a longtime member of the Seacology Board who, sadly, passed away last year. Mr. Kishimoto was a tireless champion for conservation and played a key role in establishing Seacology Japan and spearheading projects in Samoa, Fiji, Japan, and other islands across the Pacific and Southeast Asia. He published several books in both Japanese and English advocating for conservation of the world’s resources.

The residents of Gana Village have completed an initial trial of growing vegetables in their new greenhouse, and the yields are good. The village will also be focusing on artisanal organic mushroom farming, and they have acquired the necessary propagation materials and equipment. In true community spirit, the local supermarket has agreed to provide a designated rack for the Gana farmers to display and sell their products.