2009 Yearly Report

Kinabatangan Orang-Utan Conservation Project

Document Prepared by: Dr. Isabelle Lackman for HUTAN – Kinabatangan Orang-Utan Conservation Project PO Box 3109 – 90734 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia [email protected] / [email protected] 2009 YEARLY REPORT

Kinabatangan Orang-Utan Conservation Project

Contents

INTRODUCTION ...... 3

GOAL 1. ENHANCED SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE OF THE ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION STATUS OF THE ORANG-UTAN AND OTHER WILDLIFE ...... 7 OBJ.1.1. TRENDS IN POPULATION DISTRIBUTION, DENSITIES AND CONSERVATION STATUS OF THE ORANG-UTAN AND OTHER WILDLIFE IN SABAH ARE KNOWN AND MONITORED ...... 7 1.1.1. Assessing orang-utan population in the Kretam – Kulamba Forest Reserves ...... 7 1.1.2. Assessing the orang-utan population in the Sugut Delta ...... 10 1.1.3. Monitoring the orang-utan population in the Malua Forest Reserve ...... 11 1.1.4. Monitoring orang-utan densities at the Sukau Research Site ...... 11 1.1.5. Monitoring primate populations in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary ...... 13 1.1.6. Developing conservation models for orang-utans in forest islands within oil palm plantations ...... 14 1.1.7. Establishing a new orang-utan release site in Tabin Wildlife Reserve ...... 17 1.1.8. Testing transmitter implants to track wild orang-utans ...... 17 OBJ.1 2. HEALTH AND GENETIC STATUS OF ORANG-UTAN POPULATIONS IS ASSESSED AND MONITORED ...... 18 1.2.1. Parasitological study of wild orang-utans in the Lower Kinabatangan ...... 19 1.2.2. Measuring the effect of ecotourism on orang-utans’ stress levels ...... 20 1.2.3. Sanitary guidelines for orang-utan ecotourism ...... 21 1.2.4. Raising public awareness on the risks of disease transmission between humans and wildlife ...... 23 OBJ.1.3. PROCESSES OF ORANG-UTAN ECOLOGICAL ADAPTATION TO DEGRADED AND FRAGMENTED HABITAT ARE BETTER UNDERSTOOD ...... 23 1.3.1. Eco-ethological study of habituated orang-utans at the Hutan Sukau Research Site ...... 24 1.3.2. Monitoring of orang-utan food diversity and abundance - phenology studies ...... 24 1.3.3. Photo identification of wild orang-utans at the Sukau Research Site ...... 25

GOAL 2. IMPROVED POLICY FRAMEWORK FOR WILDLIFE POPULATION MANAGEMENT WITHIN AND OUTSIDE OF PROTECTED AREAS ...... 27 OBJ. 2.1. POLICIES BASED ON SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE ARE FORMULATED AND AGREED ON BY STAKEHOLDERS FOR LONG TERM WILDLIFE CONSERVATION IN SABAH ...... 27 OBJ. 2.2. SABAH’S EFFORTS TOWARDS ORANG-UTAN CONSERVATION ARE SUPPORTED AND RECOGNIZED BY INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATION POLICIES ...... 28 2.2.1. The Great Ape Debate ...... 28 2.2.2. The Great Ape Health Workshop ...... 28 2.2.3. Co-authorship of scientific articles published in peer-reviewed journals and books ...... 29

GOAL 3. REDUCED LEVEL OF CONFLICTS BETWEEN HUMAN ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE ...... 30

1 OBJ. 3.1. LEVELS OF DEGRADATION AND FRAGMENTATION OF WILDLIFE HABITAT ARE REDUCED THROUGH IMPROVED LAND USE MANAGEMENT IN HUMAN/WILDLIFE CONFLICT “HOTSPOTS” ...... 30 3.1.1. Forest Restoration in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary...... 30 3.1.2. The Resang orang-utan bridge ...... 32 3.1.3. Purchasing forests to create wildlife corridors in the Kinabatangan ...... 32 OBJ. 3.2. ILLEGAL LOGGING, POACHING AND OTHER ILLICIT ACTIVITIES ARE CONTROLLED IN KEY WILDLIFE HABITAT ...... 33 3.2.1. The Honorary Wildlife Wardens ...... 33 OBJ. 3.3. CROP RAIDING BY WILDLIFE IS REDUCED IN INDUSTRIAL PLANTATIONS AND COMMUNITY AREAS .. 34 3.3.1. The Elephant Conservation Unit ...... 34

GOAL 4. ENHANCED COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN WILDLIFE AND HABITAT CONSERVATION ...... 40 OBJ. 4.1. INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES ARE EMPOWERED IN THE MANAGEMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ...... 40 4.1.1. Recovery of the Edible Nest Swiftlet Populations in Sukau ...... 40 OBJ. 4.2. MODEL COMMUNITY INITIATIVES LEAD TO SOCIO- ECONOMIC AND CONSERVATION GAINS ...... 41 4.2.1. Red Ape Encounters and the Sukau Homestay Programme ...... 41 4.2.2. Community tree nurseries ...... 43 4.2.3. Fishermen for Conservation ...... 44

GOAL 5. ENHANCED HUMAN RESOURCE CAPACITY AND COMMITMENT TO MANAGE AND CONSERVE WILDLIFE POPULATIONS IN SABAH ...... 45 OBJ.5.1. LOCAL CAPABILITIES ENHANCED AMONG MALAYSIAN CONSERVATION PROFESSIONALS ...... 45 5.1.1. Training Sabahan conservation professionals ...... 45 5.1.2. Training of Hutan staff ...... 46 OBJ.5.2. LEVEL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS RAISED AMONG STAKEHOLDERS, GENERAL PUBLIC AND SCHOOL CHILDREN ...... 47 5.2.1. Environmental education programmes for school children in Sabah ...... 47 5.2.2. Setting up an environmental education camp ...... 48 5.2.3. Environmental Education Race ...... 48 5.2.4. International Children’s Conference on the Environment ...... 49 5.2.5. Sabah Environmental Education Network ...... 49 5.2.6. Raising awareness on nature conservation issues ...... 49

ANNEX 1. RESOLUTION OF THE 2009 ORANG-UTAN CONSERVATION COLLOQUIUM 49

2

INTRODUCTION

Hutan is a grassroots non-profit organization working to conserve orang-utan and other wildlife populations in the forests of Sabah. In 1998, Hutan set up the Kinabatangan Orang-Utan Conservation Project (KOCP) in collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department. We are now working with a wide range of partners - local communities, research institutions, government agencies and the private sector - to find realistic solutions where the sustainable use of natural resources and durable socio-economic development can be compatible with, and even support, the conservation of wildlife and their habitat.

Through KOCP, Hutan has developed an integrated approach combining scientific research, protection and management of orang-utan habitat, capacity building, awareness campaigns, and community outreach and development projects. Over the past eleven years Hutan has encountered many challenges but our efforts have resulted in many successes: discoveries are being made on the ecology of the orang-utan, new protected areas are created - such as the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary -, sound policies for the conservation of orang-utan and other wildlife are established in Sabah, solutions are implemented that reduce the levels of conflicts between human activities, and wildlife and pioneering initiatives by local communities are leading to tangible economic and conservation gains.

Since the start of programme in 1998, we placed a high priority on the intensive training of our local staff to conduct high quality research and conservation activities. Today, our team is composed of 40 highly skilled staff hailing from the native community, working with immense dedication.

In 2009, Hutan conducted numerous surveys in forest reserves throughout Sabah to assess orang-utan and other wildlife populations and produced Wildlife Conservation Plans for these protected areas. We investigated the impact of oil palm agriculture development on orang-utan populations in Sabah and promoted strict environmental regulations for the Malaysian palm oil industry. At our Sukau research site, we collected a record amount of orang-utan eco-ethological data and conducted a pioneering study on orang-utan population health. In the Kinabatangan floodplain, Hutan’s efforts to recreate a forest corridor along the river has made good progress with our forest restoration project and the purchase of privately owned forested lands. The Kinabatangan community has stepped up its involvement in the management of the region’s natural resources through the Honorary Wildlife Warden scheme and Hutan’s community-based wildlife conflict mitigation squad. Hutan has also provided organizational, technical and financial support to community projects aiming at integrating sustainable development with the long-term conservation of natural resources: a community tree nursery project, the Sukau homestay prograsmme and Red Ape Encounters - the first community-based ecotourism tour operator in Malaysia. In 2009, Hutan’s field research centre has been a busy training platform for Malaysian and international conservation professionals. Finally, Hutan’s Environmental Education Project has intensified its programmes with Sabah’s school children and the general public.

3 WHERE IS SABAH?

4 HUTAN’S ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

5 PROGRAMME GOALS AND OBJECTIVES.

Goal 1. Enhanced scientific knowledge of the ecology and conservation status of the orang-utan and other wildlife Objective 1.1. Trends in distribution, population densities and conservation status of the orang-utan and other wildlife in Sabah are known and monitored Objective 1.2. Health and genetic status of orang-utan populations is assessed and monitored Objective 1.3. Processes of ecological adaptation of the orang-utan to degraded and fragmented habitat are better understood

Goal 2. Improved policy framework for wildlife population management within and outside of protected areas Objective 2.1. Policies based on scientific knowledge are formulated and agreed on by stakeholders for long term wildlife conservation in Sabah Objective 2.2. Sabah’s efforts towards orang-utan conservation are supported and recognized by international conservation policies

Goal 3. Reduced level of conflicts between human activities and wildlife Objective 3.1. Levels of degradation and fragmentation of wildlife habitat are reduced through improved land use management in human/wildlife conflict “hotspots” Objective 3.2. Illegal logging, poaching and other illicit activities are controlled in key wildlife habitat Objective 3.3. Crop raiding by wildlife is reduced in industrial plantations and community areas

Goal 4. Enhanced community engagement in wildlife and habitat conservation Objective 4.1. Indigenous community are empowered in the management of local natural resources Objective 4.2. Model community initiatives lead to socio- economic and conservation gains

Goal 5. Enhanced human resource capacity and commitment to manage and conserve wildlife populations in Sabah Objective 5.1. Local capabilities enhanced among Malaysian conservation professionals Objective 5. 2. Level of environmental awareness raised among stakeholders, general public and school children

6

PROGRAMME ACTIVITIES

Goal 1. Enhanced scientific knowledge of the ecology and conservation status of the orang-utan and other wildlife

Obj.1.1. Trends in distribution, population densities and conservation status of orang-utans and other wildlife in Sabah are known and monitored 1.1.1. Assessing orang-utan population in the Kretam – Kulamba Forest Reserves In April 2009, Hutan was contracted by the Sabah Forestry Department to assess orang-utan and other key wildlife populations in the Kretam-Kulamba Forest Reserves in Eastern Sabah and to produce a Wildlife Conservation Plan for these protected areas.

The Kretam Kulamba forest reserve complex is Sabah’s most unique coastal forest reserve. These 21,105 ha of mangrove, freshwater swamp, peat swamp, coastal/beach, riparian and mixed dipterocarp forests remain as the sole example of a naturally diverse coastal ecosystem in North Borneo. The forests here maintain significant populations of orang-utans, storm storks, lesser adjutants, oriental darters and other notable species. Kulamba is also home to one of the largest populations of Tembadau in Borneo. The area has been highlighted as being Sabah’s first RAMSAR listing in October 2008, and the most extensive in Malaysia. In mid-2008, the Sabah Forestry Department purchased a 242-hectare parcel of secondary forest linking the Kretam Forest Reserve with Kulamba Wildlife Reserve with funds from an English organization World Land Trust. This land is the only remaining forested link between the two protected areas (the rest has been converted to oil palm plantations) and constitutes a critical corridor allowing movements of orang-utans and other wildlife within the reserve complex.

A series of intensive aerial and ground surveys was conducted by experienced Hutan staff from April to September 2009 to assess the status of orang-utan and other wildlife populations.

The size estimate for the orang- utan population in Kretam

Kulamba stands at about 490 individuals. Population densities varied according to forest types (ranging from 1.24 to 3.39

7 individuals per square kilometer). Orang-utans were mostly concentrated in the mixed lowland forests of the southwestern and south-central part of Kulamba, where the forest is drier and the canopy is less disturbed. Densities were lower in the swamps and semi- inundated forests of the north east.

Based on the survey results, Hutan formulated a Wildlife Conservation Plan which was handed over to the Sabah Forestry Department in December 2009. The topics enclosed within this plan include habitat description, wildlife, ecological and conservation values, management issues and threats, and management recommendations.

Date Expeditions Objective Method Completed Aerial Surveys for To conduct a rapid habitat assessment and to establish One 3-hour helicopter April 2009 Kretam - Kulamba permanent aerial wildlife monitoring transects and assess survey (rapid assessment) orang-utan and tembadau populations One 3-hour helicopter September 2009 orang-utan census and tembadau survey Preliminary To map access points and expedition camp sites and to One 12-day ground survey June 2009 Ground Survey in conduct interviews in villages/ plantations Kretam - Kulamba Kretam Wildlife To establish permanent wildlife monitoring transects, carry One 12-day ground survey July 2009 Survey out inventory of wildlife species and establish baseline population data for key species Kulamba Wildlife To establish permanent wildlife monitoring transects, carry Two 12-day ground surveys August and Survey out inventory of wildlife species and establish baseline September 2009 population data for key species

8

9 1.1.2. Assessing the orang-utan population in the Sugut Delta In 2009, Hutan was contracted by the Sabah Forestry Department to conduct wildlife surveys in the Sugut Delta in northeast Sabah. The main goals of these surveys was to assess orang-utan and other key wildlife populations, identify key features within the project area and evaluate their potential for ecotourism development, to identify the major threats on the wildlife populations and ecosystems and to propose effective recommendations for the formulation of a Wildlife Conservation Plan for the area.

The Sugut Delta is a large stretch of coastal mangroves and nipa swamps backed by freshwater marshes, some of the best swamp forest in Sabah and two large river systems (Labuk and Sugut) with associated oxbow lakes. Large portions of the area are included in forest reserves. Most of the mangrove forests are included in the Kuala Bonggaya and Kuala Labuk Forest Reserves (56,912 ha), and in the Sg. Sugut (1,887 ha) and Paitan Forest Reserve (129 ha). Much of the swamp forests are found in the Sugut Forest Reserve, a commercial forest reserve of 32,000 ha.

Hutan conducted five 10-day expeditions from March to July 2009 in the forest reserves of the Sugut Delta. Interview surveys were also conducted in villages within the Dugut Delta.The mangrove forests of the Sugut Delta are still relatively well preserved. Wildlife was widespread but not as abundant and diverse as in other areas of Sabah. Orang-utans were found in degraded dry dipterocarp forests of the Bonggaya Forest Reserve. More orang-utans were found pocketed in patches of mangrove between the sea and oil palm plantations. Mangroves are not a prime orang-utan habitat and do not provide enough food sources to sustain an orang-utan population. Major threats to the ecosystem include the destruction of mangrove formations and riparian forests for oil palm agriculture as well as trawl fishing in water bodies within the mangroves. The scenic value of pristine mangroves constitutes a major asset for ecotourism development in the area. Hutan compiled the survey results and management recommendations in a report to the Sabah Forestry Department in July 2009.

Location of wildlife surveys conducted by Hutan in the Sugut Delta (March – July 2009)

10 1.1.3. Monitoring the orang-utan population in the Malua Forest Reserve In 2008, Hutan conducted intensive surveys to assess the orang-utan population in the 34,000 ha Malua Forest Reserve in central Sabah in collaboration with the Sabah Forestry Department. In 2009, Hutan produced an Orang-Utan and Wildlife Monitoring Strategy for Malua Forest Reserve based on the 2008 survey results. As part of this strategy, Hutan also conducted a 10-day training course for the personnel of the Sabah Forestry Dept Malua Wildlife Unit (5 persons) on orang-utan and wildlife monitoring techniques (18 to 30 May 2009).

The Sabah State Government has licensed conservation rights for a period of 50 years to the Malua Wildlife Habitat Conservation Bank (Malua BioBank) and a private investor has committed up to 10 million USD for the rehabilitation of the Malua Forest Reserve over the next six years. The Malua BioBank is now restoring critical orang-utan habitat and sells Biodiversity Conservation Certificates, each certificate representing 100-sq.m of rainforest restoration and protection. The BioBank came about as a direct result of Hutan surveys that concluded the Malua area of high levels of biodiversity with significant orang-utan and tembadau populations.

1.1.4. Monitoring orang-utan densities at the Sukau Research Site In 1998 Hutan set up an intensive research site to study the socio-ecology of wild orang-utans in the degraded forests of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary (Lot 2, near the Sukau village). Detailed observations of orang-utans’ activity and ranging patterns, feeding behavior and social organization are recorded at the Sukau Research Site (see Obj.1.3.).

Since 2006 Hutan has also been closely monitoring orang-utan densities in the 6.2 sq.km Sukau Research Site. The aim of this study is to detect population increases or declines over the years which would reflect the overall situation of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. Seasonal variations in orang-utans’ use of the different forest types found at the research site (i.e. dry dipterocarp, semi-inundated, freshwater swamp and riparian forests) also allow us to better understand habitat use and home range patterns in our research orang-utans.

The methodology for this study consists of orang-utan nests counts repeated at 6-week intervals on 13.42 km of fixed ground transects (Fig. 4.). A statistical analysis of the transect data translates nest densities into orang-utan densities, taking into consideration parameters such as the nest construction rate per orang-utan and the nest decay rate by tree species and forest type.

Between 2006 and 2009, average orang-utan densities at the research site have fluctuated between 1.8 and 3.2 individuals per sq.km with an average of 2.2 individuals per sq.km in 2009 (Fig. 1). In 2009, overall orang-utan densities at the Sukau Research Site have oscillated between 0.98 and 4.17 individuals per sq.km (Fig. 2). Figure 2. shows a same broad pattern of orang-utans’ presence in the research site since 2006, with two peaks of high densities in April and August and the lowest densities in February and July. These monthly variations can be explained by the fact that the research site only constitutes a fraction of the studied orang-utans’ home ranges and that they move in and out of the area according to seasonal circumstances such as food distribution or social factors. In 2009, orang-utan densities also varied in different types of forest: orang-utans preferred dry dipterocarp forests while riparian forests were the least used habitat in 2009 (Fig. 3).

11 Fig. 2 - Yearly Orang-Utan Densities Fig.1 - Average Orang-Utan Densities at at the Sukau Research Site the Sukau Research Site (average for all forest types) (2006 - 2009) 3.5 3.2 6 Year 06 Year 07 3 2.8 Year 08 Year 09 5 2.5 2.2 4 2 1.8 3 1.5

Utan Density Utan (individuals/sq.km) Utan Density Utan (individuals/sq.km) - 1 - 2

Orang Orang 0.5 1

0 0 Year 06 Year 07 Year 08 Year 09 Feb April May July Aug Sept Nov

Fig. 3 - Orang-Utan Densities by Forest Type

at the Sukau Research Site during 2009 9 RIRiparian SISemi- SWFreshwater DRYDry Forest Inundated Swamp Dipterocarp 8 Forest Forest Forest

7

6

5

4

Utan Density Utan (individu/sq.km)

- 3

Orang 2

1

0

Feb April May July Aug Sept Nov

12 Fig. 4 - Orang-Utan “Hotspots” at the Sukau Research Site: zones with higher nest densities (2007, 2008 and 2009)

2008

2007

2009

1.1.5. Monitoring primate populations in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary Since 2007, Hutan monitors primate populations in the Lower Kinabatangan Sanctuary. The method consists of monthly 5-day boat surveys along 9 km of river. A kilometric index (number of groups spotted per kilometer) is calculated for five primate species (proboscis monkey, long-tail macaque, pig-tail macaque, silver leaf monkey and red-leaf monkey). Hornbill (8 species) and pigeon populations are also monitored during these surveys.

PMProboscis LTMLong Tail PTMPig Tail SLMSilver Leaf RLMRed Leaf Monkey Macaque Macaque Monkey Monkey

13 1.1.6. Developing conservation models for orang-utans living in forest islands within oil palm plantations Recent genetic studies by the Cardiff University and Hutan have identified that orang-utan populations in Sabah have declined by more than 50% during the last few decades. The major cause of this steep decline is due to habitat loss owing to conversion of vast areas of natural forests to agriculture, oil palm plantations representing an overwhelming majority of the converted forest areas. Other factors that contribute to this population decline are hunting and the illegal pet trade.

Similar scientific studies throughout Borneo and Sumatra have also shown that commercial logging, mining and forest conversion to industrial tree plantation and oil palm agriculture result in an extreme loss of biodiversity. With no suitable habitat left and depleted food sources, most wild orang-utans populations living outside of protected areas are now at risk of extinction.

Today palm oil is the most used oil in the world and worldwide demand rose to 36 million tons in 2006 and continues to increase every year. With a comparatively high calorific value per hectare, oil palms are considered one of the most efficient and sustainable commercial oil seed crop. A vast percentage of the world’s palm oil comes from the island of Borneo.

The rapid and unrestricted conversion of natural forests for oil palm plantations in Borneo has fuelled a heated universal debate over the impact of deforestation on the survival of orang-utan populations. The palm oil industry has been accused of contributing to the dramatic decline in orangutan populations. The industry has staunchly denied these charges and responded with defensive marketing campaigns claiming the opposite: that oil palm plantations can support and nourish the great red apes. These claims are scientifically flawed at best.

Aggressive “blackwashing” by some environmental quarters and defensive “greenwashing” by the palm oil industry has led the debate to an unproductive impasse, each side resolute on its position, with tangible means to improve upon the fate of the orang-utan and its forest habitat dwindling.

Hutan together with other conservation organizations in Sabah have decided to engage the Malaysian palm oil industry into a practical effort to objectively assess the situation on the ground and bring scientific findings to a discussion with all stakeholders to find and implement realistic solutions for the conservation of the orang-utan in Sabah.

Assessing orang-utan populations isolated in oil palm plantations In 2008 Hutan conducted intensive helicopter and ground surveys in collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department and the Borneo Conservation Trust to assess the orang-utan situation within the oil palm landscape of Eastern Sabah. These surveys were funded by the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC).

In April 2009, Hutan submitted a 70-page survey report to the MPOC entitled “Aerial Surveys of Orang-Utan Nests within the Oil Palm Landscape of Eastern Sabah, Malaysian North Borneo”. The surveys had revealed that a few hundred orang-utans exist in small forest islands isolated within 500,000 ha of extensive oil palm landscape in East Sabah. More than a hundred pockets of highly degraded forest (with sizes ranging from a single tree to a few hectares) were identified within oil palm estates, most of them overrun by invasive plant species such as creepers (climbing bamboos, vine etc.). More than a

thousand orang-utan nests were recorded within these forests. Orang-utans were also found in mangrove forests adjacent to oil palm estates and separated from dry forests by large plantations. Oil palm plantations and mangroves are known to

14 be unsuitable permanent habitat for orang-utans. It is highly unlikely that orang-utans living in these degraded fragments of forest are resident populations. On the contrary, these individuals are probably “transient” orang-utans (young adults attempting to disperse from their mother’s home range or animals displaced by recent forest conversions) roaming through the oil palm estates in search of new areas of forest to establish their territories. These isolated orang-utan population units are clearly not viable in the long-term, because of the insufficient diversity and abundance of food sources and of the unavoidable rapid deterioration of populations’ genetic diversity.

Location Findings More than 200 orang-utan nests in 10 forests islands surrounded by oil palm South of Sandakan plantations and in mangrove forest reserves Timimbang Forest Reserve Very few orang-utans in this forest reserve Highly degraded forest earmarked for conversion to oil palm plantation and other Bonggaya Forest Reserve agriculture uses. This forest harbours more than 100 orang-utans. Sugud plantations (IJM) More than 150 orang-utan nests in 15 forest islands within this oil palm plantation Beluran and Lokan mangroves More than 50 orang-utan nests in these mangrove forests Hundreds of orang-utan nests in 15 forest islands within oil palm plantations Lower Segama between Kulamba and Tabin Wildlife Reserves Lahad Datu 25 orang-utan nests in 5 forest islands Lower Kinabatangan More than 200 orang-utan nests in 25 forest islands

The report also contained practical recommendations to improve the chances of long-term survival for the orang-utans pocketed in oil palm plantations. The proposed management actions included stopping forest conversion in key orang-utan habitat, and maintaining areas of natural vegetation within plantations to create a network of natural forest corridors allowing for orang-utans to move across the landscape and to link together the different populations that are still isolated by extensive plantations. Another recommendation was to hold a conference regrouping all stakeholders to present the survey results and discuss the way forward to secure the long-term survival of the orang-utans living in oil palm plantations.

15 SUMMARY OF THE RESOLUTION OF THE “2009 ORANGUTAN CONSERVATION COLLOQUIUM” OCTOBER 1ST - 2ND 2009, SABAH, MALAYSIA

The participants of the “2009 Orangutan Conservation Colloquium” note the importance of corridors within a fragmented landscape for biodiversity conservation, orang-utans and other wildlife, and recognize the need to re-establish connections between orangutan populations, and arrived at the following priority recommendations: Recommendations pertaining to land issues The group envisions the creation of contiguous wildlife corridors of natural habitat in order to balance sustainable development and the conservation of orang-utans as flagship species for wider biodiversity. The development of such corridors must be pragmatic and enforceable through legal clarity and community engagement. Recommendations pertaining to land acquisition The group envisages the creation of a contiguous green corridor through various means including compulsory acquisition Recommendations pertaining to financial options The group aims at developing financing solutions for the effective rehabilitation and restoration of Orangutan habitat within the Kinabatangan Landscape as a model for Borneo. Recommendations pertaining to the establishment of forest corridors The group recognizes that forest corridors are crucial in maintaining and enhancing the ecosystem services of Sabah, including biodiversity and ecological integrity. Recommendations pertaining to translocation exercises Translocation is not a stand-alone solution for the long-term survival of orangutan populations but can be used as a management tool to complement the development of wildlife corridors in saving orang-utans in fragmented landscapes.

Orang-Utan Conservation Colloquium In July 2009, Hutan, the Sabah Wildlife Department and the Malaysian Palm oil Council (MPOC) met in Kuala Lumpur to deliberate on the orang-utan survey report. It was decided that an Orang-Utan Conservation Colloquium would be organized, bringing together representatives from the palm oil industry and world-renowned researchers and environmentalists to discuss the survey results, and to identify practical solutions concerning the palm oil industry and its involvement in the long-term of orang-utan conservation efforts in Malaysia. The colloquium was to be jointly organized by Hutan, the Borneo Conservation Trust, the Sabah Wildlife Department, the Sabah Forestry Department and the Land Survey Department of Sabah, with financial support from MPOC.

The “Orangutan Conservation Colloquium: Developing Models for Orang-Utan Conservation Within Fragmented Ecosystems” was held in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on the 1st and 2nd of October 2009. This colloquium was widely attended by decision-makers from the plantation industry and experienced field biologists and researchers. The event enjoyed universal coverage in both local and international media. The media coverage ensured that the issue on oil palm versus orang-utans would be highlighted and studied.

Dr. Marc Ancrenaz (of Hutan) gave a lecture on the status of orang-utans within the oil palm landscape in Sabah and possible mitigation measures to ensure their

long-term survival and viability. Discussions and debates throughout the 2-day

colloquium did just enough to convince the state government of Sabah and the

16 federal Plantation Industry and Commodities Ministry to accommodate conservation oriented practices into the oil palm industry for the long-term conservation of orang-utans and biodiversity. Among the major outputs of the colloquium was a Resolution endorsed by all participants and submitted to the Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment. A summary of the recommendations from the colloquium is the text box listed below. The complete text is listed in annex 1. Another major output is the preparation of a Cabinet paper that addresses fragmentation issues faced by orang-utan sub- populations throughout the oil palm landscape of eastern Sabah. This document will include in detail all the recommendations from the colloquium and is expected to be endorsed by the Sabah State Cabinet. Representatives from Hutan also attended the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) meeting held in Kuala Lumpur in November of 2009 to further engage industry members.

1.1.7. Establishing a new orang-utan release site in Tabin Wildlife Reserve Tabin Wildlife Reserve is a protected area covering 112,000 ha of lowland forest in eastern Sabah. The Sabah Wildlife Department and the English charity “Orangutan Appeal” are now working together to set up a translocation programme in the Tabin Wildlife Reserve for orang-utans found stranded in oil palm plantations. Hutan has been collaborating closely with this project by providing intensive training to five Orangutan Appeal staff on orang-utan field research and monitoring techniques (April 2009). In October and November 2009 Hutan field researchers conducted surveys in the Tabin Wildlife Reserve to assess suitable sites for releasing translocated orang-utans. Hutan produced a 15-page survey report for UK Appeal and the Sabah Wildlife Department. In 2010, Hutan will conduct more training courses for Orangutan Appeal staff on mapping techniques, orang-utan ecological studies and population monitoring, tree identification and phenology studies.

1.1.8. Testing transmitter implants to track wild orang-utans In September 2009, Dr Christian Waltzer of the University of Veterinary Medicine in Austria and Dr Thierry Petit of the French Zoo La Palmyre came to Sabah to experiment the first ever transmitter implants on wild orang-utans with the Sabah Wildlife Department and Hutan. Radio transmitters fitted in loose collars around the neck of animals are often used by biologists to track wildlife: a receiver antenna allows to detect the transmitter’s signal and to locate the animal. Orang-utans having “four” strong and agile hands can easily remove the collars. The new implant technology brings new hopes of radio-tracking orangutans in the wild, and to trace rehabilitated orang-utans after their release. The transmitter, a radio device the size of an American quarter, is placed in the neck area where the skin is thick and has fat deposits. The device can also be switched on or off by using a magnet without any surgery. The implants were tested on captive orang utans in France in March 2009 and the trial produced no harmful effects on the animals. A first field trial was carried out with three orang-utans from the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in September 2009. The three orang-utans are doing well and rangers in Sepilok are monitoring them daily with the tracking equipment. The Sabah Wildlife Department is now confident about using this method more systematically on rehabilitated orang-utans.

17 1.1.9. Hornbill conservation and traditional knowledge The Kinabatangan is home to eight species of hornbills - rhinoceros, helmeted, Asian black, oriental pied, wreathed, wrinkled, white crowned and bushy crested hornbills -. Little is known however on their distribution, abundance and conservation status.

In November 2009, Hutan initiated, with the support of the Chester Zoo and the Woodland Park Zoo, a preliminary assessment of the Kinabatangan hornbill populations through a region wide villagers’ interview survey. Hornbills are indeed an important feature of Kinabatangan folklore and villagers have an in-depth knowledge of hornbills’ characteristics and behaviours. We produced a brochure in both English and Malay languages presenting basic information and pictures of the eight hornbill species found in the Kinabatangan. This brochure is used as an opening during the villagers’ interview surveys. Preliminary results show that villagers are quite familiar with the eight hornbill species and many tales and beliefs related to these birds have already been recorded. All of the interviewed villagers observed a decline in hornbill abundance near their village over the years.

Hornbills generally form monogamous pairs with a unique nesting behaviour: hornbills are hole-nesters, preferring natural cavities in large hollow trees. The female hornbill seals the entrance to her nest cavity, leaving only a narrow slit through which she, and later her chicks, receive food from her mate. The logged-over forests of the Kinabatangan however only have very few large trees left. This might constitute a major obstacle for the breeding of the hornbills and a threat to their survival. We will conduct in 2010 a more detailed scientific survey of the Kinabatangan hornbill populations. According to the results of this survey, we will consider engaging the Kinabatangan communities in a hornbill conservation programme by setting up artificial nest boxes to be monitored by local villagers.

1.1.10. Frog communities in the Kinabatangan In 2008 and 2009, Hutan conducted a baseline study of the frog communities in the fragmented and degraded habitats of the Lower Kinabatangan. The study was done in collaboration with Dr. Graeme Gillepsie of Zoos Victoria, Australia and Peter Riger of the Houston Zoo, US.

We searched for frogs along thirteen 400-m long transects covering different habitat types representative of Kinabatangan ecosystems: six types of natural habitats (dry dipterocarp, riparian , semi-inundated and freshwater swamp forests; limestone hill and small streams) and two in manmade habitats (orchards and oil palm plantations). We run these transects at night three times a year, before, during and after the monsoon.

A total of thirty two species of frogs were identified so far. Six species are endemic to Borneo. One frog found in Hutan’s orang-utan research site possibly is a new species. Most frogs were found during the semi-wet and monsoon periods. Riparian forests had the most diverse frog communities. We will intensify our survey effort in 2010, with greater survey effort involving litters search, pitfall trapping and tree climbing.

18 Obj.1 2. Health and genetic status of orang-utan populations is assessed and monitored Human contact with wildlife facilitate the evolution of infectious diseases through their transmission between animals and humans. The possibility of such contacts are rapidly increasing with humans penetrating deeper into natural habitats for timber exploitation, forest conversion to agriculture, poaching and even research and tourism activities. Today, more than half of human diseases are zoonotic (transmitted between animals and humans). One example is the outbreak caused by the Nipah virus in Malaysia which killed over a hundred people in 1999: large-scale deforestation affected a population of fruit bats which are the natural reservoir hosts of the virus. These bats entered into more frequent contacts with the pigs of nearby farms. The pigs became ill and transmitted the disease to the farmers. The sale and transportation of infected pigs spread the outbreak to other regions of Malaysia and Singapore.

Disease ecology is now at the forefront of wildlife veterinary research and it has been discovered that diseases can play a significant role in the decline and extinction of species. During the last decade, several cases have been documented where wild great ape populations were severely depleted and even wiped out by disease outbreaks such as ebola, measles, polio and anthrax. Emerging infectious diseases are now considered one of the major threats for the long-term survival of great apes. Monitoring pathogen agents in the remaining wild great ape populations has therefore become a conservation priority.

There is very little knowledge on the diseases of wild orang-utans in Borneo and Sumatra. Since 2007, Hutan, Red Ape Encounters, the Sabah Wildlife Department and Dr. Michael Muehlenbein from the University of Indiana collaborate on assessing orang-utan population health in the Kinabatangan. The project includes a parasitological study, the monitoring of stress levels and disease screening in wild orang-utans (through non-invasive methods). Based on the study results, we have produced sanitary guidelines for orang-utan tourism, conducted an awareness campaign on the risks of disease transmission between humans and wildlife, organized a workshop on ecosystem health in Sabah and published several articles in scientific journals.

1.2.1. Parasitological study of wild orang-utans in the Lower Kinabatangan Parasites are organisms that grow, feed, and are sheltered on or in different organisms while contributing nothing to the survival of their host. Gastro-intestinal parasites live in the intestinal tract of their hosts. They include worms (such as tapeworms, pinworms, and roundworms) and protozoa (single-celled organisms). Orang-utans are very close to humans physiologically. This makes them vulnerable to many parasites carried by humans. The orang-utans might also be carriers of parasites that could be transmitted to humans.

In order to assess the presence of gastro-intestinal parasites in the Lower Kinabatangan orang-utans population, fecal samples were collected from wild orang-utans. Orang-utans are usually solitary, shy and silent and it is difficult to find them in the forest. It is even more difficult to find orang- utan feces. The search was typically conducted from a boat moving slowly along the banks of the Kinabatangan to spot orang-utans in the trees. Once an orang-utan was spotted, it was carefully observed until it defecated. On average, more than ten hours of search and waiting time was necessary to obtain one sample. Orang-utans from the Sukau Research Site were also

19 sampled. Parasite identification and quantification in the fecal samples were conducted with a microscope at the Hutan Field Centre by local research officers trained by Dr. Michael Muehlenbein. Another eighteen captive and semi-captive orphan orang-utans at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre were also screened for parasites.

From 2007 to 2009 a total of 103 fecal samples (from 40 different wild orang-utans) were collected and analyzed for gastro-intestinal parasites. About 30% of them were free of parasites. The most commonly identified parasites were eggs and larvae of hookworms (Strongyloidea Family), eggs of Balantidium coli, Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba histolytica and larvae Entamoeba nana, Iodamoeba sp, Trichuris sp. and Trichostrongyloidea sp.

Parasite loads in the wild orang-utans of the Lower Kinabatangan appeared to be lower than those described in captive zoo orang-utans, and even lower than those found in the semi-captive orang-utans at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre. This suggests a fairly healthy Kinabatangan orang-utan population. This finding also suggests that natural mechanisms may be at play to reduce intestinal parasite infestation in the natural habitat of the wild orang-utans. Our data showed no difference between the parasite loads of the wild orang-utans within the Sukau Research Site (with higher proximity to field researchers and visitors for the past eleven years) and those found outside of the research site. This indicates that the risks of cross-contamination between researchers and orang-utans are low at the research site.

1.2.2. Measuring the effect of ecotourism on orang-utans’ stress levels Since 2003, Hutan has been helping a community-based initiative – Red Ape Encounters - to develop orang-utan tourism at the Sukau Research Site (see Obj. 4.2.). Since the early stages of the project, we made it one of our highest priorities to develop and implement strict sanitary regulations to prevent risks of disease transmission between orang-utans and visitors as well as to ensure the well-being of the orang-utans.

Hutan, Red Ape Encounters and Dr. Michael Muehlenbein from the University of Indiana initiated a study in 2007 to quantify the impact of human presence on wild orang-utans’ well-being, by measuring the levels of cortisol in their feces.

Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland in humans and orang-utans alike. It is usually referred to as the "stress hormone" as it is involved in response to stress and anxiety. The hormone functions by rapidly increasing blood pressure and blood sugar, allowing the organism to cope with the stressful events. Cortisol also reduces immune responses. Cortisol levels can now be monitored using enzyme immunoassay techniques on fecal samples.

A total of 121 fecal samples were collected from wild orang-utans between 2007 and 2009. A batch of 43 samples was obtained from 21 individual orang-utans not subjected to the presence of tourists or researchers. Another 116 samples were collected from two other orang-utans - Jenny and Etin - habituated by Hutan for its orang-utan eco-ethological studies (see Obj. 1.3.) and often used by Red Ape Encounters in its orang-utan tours. In order to detect the effect of tourits’ presence on Jenny and Etin’s cortisol levels, samples were collected before, during and after an encounter with tourist groups. Samples were processed at the Hutan Field Centre and sent to the University of Indiana for standard enzyme immunoassays.

Preliminary results show no difference in baseline cortisol levels between non- habituated orang-utans and orang-utans that are subjected to regular presence of

20 field researchers and tourists. There were also no significant differences in the cortisol level values of the samples of Jenny and Etin collected before, during and after the visit of a tourist group. The complete results of the study will be presented in an article to be published in a scientific journal in 2011.

This study did not seem to show any significant impact of human presence on the cortisol levels of wild orang-utans in the Kinabatangan. This might suggest that eleven years of intensive research by Hutan and six years of orang-utan tours by Red Ape Encounters have not affected the well being of the orang-utans. But it might also mean that monitoring fecal cortisal levels is not an effective method of detecting stress levels in wild orang-utans. The best method for monitoring and minimizing the stress levels of an orang-utan subjected to human presence is probably still to observe its behavioral response. Signs of stress include squeaking, breaking branches, or hiding for prolonged periods of time.

1.2.3. Sanitary guidelines for orang-utan ecotourism Ecotourism is generally perceived as an effective tool to support conservation by increasing public awareness, generating sustainable funding, encouraging governments and communities to take action against habitat degradation and poaching and more generally by giving wildlife and natural habitats an economic value. Great ape tourism, with the mountain gorilla tours in Rwanda and Uganda, is one of the most popular examples. But the increasing demand of ecotourists to experience close encounters with wild animals places serious pressures on wildlife itself, which can include disruption of movements, disturbance of social processes, transmission of diseases and a general increase of stress levels.

Because of their genetic relatedness with humans, nonhuman primates are particularly susceptible to human infections, and the problem becomes exacerbated by the fact that many travelers are under-vaccinated, potentially infectious, and lack a clear understanding about the susceptibility of these animals to the human condition. Given these potential costs, sanitary regulations should be implemented at wildlife sanctuaries and ecotourism destinations involving primates.

Hutan and Red Ape Encounters have developed strict regulations for visitors at the orang-utan research site. These rules aim at minimizing the negative impact that visitors may have on the orang-utans and the ecosystem. They include a limitation of tourist numbers visiting the orang-utan site, sanitary considerations and a list of appropriate behaviours. Hutan and Red Ape Encounters are also participating in the formulation of the “Best Practices Guidelines for the Management of Great Ape Tourism” for the IUCN Species Survival Commission’s Section on Great Apes.

In August 2009, Marc Ancrenaz delivered a talk “Orang-utan tourism in Asia: current regulations and recommendations for tourism rules and regulations” at a symposium of the “Great Ape Health Monitoring Unit” in Entebbe Uganda.

21 SANITARY GUIDELINES FOR TOURISTS VISITING THE RED APE ENCOUNTERS' WILD ORANG-UTANS

RULE 1: Visits to the study site is limited to seven persons (RAE staff not included) Reasons: x Control the risk of human impacts x Optimize the quality of the orang-utan encounter and viewing for tourists RULE 2: Duration of viewing an orang-utan is limited to a maximum of one hour Reasons: x Reduce the risks of orang-utan exposure to pathogens agents x Minimize disturbance and associated stress to the orang-utan Note: If an orang-utan is not visible when the visitors arrive at the site (i.e. lying in its nest), visitors will wait with their guide at a minimum of 100 meters from the tree where the animal stays. RULE 3: Frequency of visits is limited to two visits per day to one orang-utan (2 hrs max) Reasons: x Minimize stress for the animal x Minimize the negative impacts of human presence on the natural environment (trampling, disturbance to the ecosystem, etc.) RULE 4: Sick people are not allowed to enter the research site and visit the orang-utans Reasons: x Minimize risks of disease transmission Note: Tourists are asked to self-report any sickness to the RAE staff and their visit can be rescheduled. In case of light respiratory infection, the visitor will be asked to wear a mask (provided by RAE) during the close encounter with the orang-utan. RAE staff can refuse a visit to any visitor showing obvious signs of disease. RULE 5: Minimum distance to view orang-utans is 10 meters (20 meters for people with light respiratory infection and wearing a mask) Reason: x Minimize risks of disease transmission RULE 6: Adopt an appropriate behaviour during the encounter with an orang-utan Reasons: x Minimize the stress and disturbance to the animals Proper behaviours: 9 Refrain from smoking, eating, sneezing and coughing in the presence of orang-utans. 9 Remain within a group without losing contact with the RAE staff. 9 Whenever possible, visitors should sit while watching the apes. 9 Stay as quiet as possible during the entire visit (no screaming, no brutal moves, no running, etc.). 9 Do not damage the vegetation to get a better view of the orang-utan. 9 If the orang-utan shows signs of disturbance (squeaking sounds, breaking branches), step back and do not stare at the orang-utan and do not use binoculars, photographic or video lenses. 9 Do not try to approach an orang-utan unless a guide is with you. 9 Do not use camera flashes in proximity of orang-utans, it would frighten them. RULE 7: Adopt an appropriate behaviour during all time in the forest Reason: x Minimize disturbance to the ecosystem Proper behaviours:

9 Faecal material and papers must be buried in a pit hole dug 20cm deep 9 Littering is strictly prohibited and all non-biodegradable rubbish must be brought back out of the forest. 22

Interview survey on health behaviours of ecotourists at the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre Hutan and Red Ape Encounters assisted Dr. Muelhenbein to conduct an interview survey at the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre located in east Sabah to characterize health behaviours of tourists and to better understand the risks of infectious disease transmission at wildlife sanctuaries. The Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre is operating since 1964 and one of its forest feeding platforms is open to the public to view rehabilated orang-utans. Scores of international tourists and local visitors visit Sepilok every year. In July 2008, anonymous surveys were obtained from 633 visitors at the feeding platform. The questionnaire recorded basic demographic information, history of recent travel, recalled recent contact with livestock, domestic and wild animals, recent diagnoses and symptoms of various infections, and recalled current vaccination status for several infectious diseases. Over half of the tourists reported being currently vaccinated against tuberculosis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, and measles. 15% of the total sample self-reported at least one of the following symptoms during their present visit: cough, sore throat, congestion, fever, diarrhea and vomiting. 20.1% reported some type of significant animal contact, and of those that reported animal contact, significantly more of them (19%) reported current respiratory symptoms compared to those individuals with no such animal contact. The results of this study are currently being published in an international scientific journal.

1.2.4. Raising public awareness on the risks of disease transmission between humans and wildlife Hutan’s Environment Awareness Project (HEAP) developed education materials highlighting the risks of disease transmission between people and wild primates such as the orang-utan. A poster and a powerpoint presentation are used during HEAP’s programmes in schools and villages. The pictures of intestinal parasites are particularly popular and convey the message with great efficiency.

Two press releases on ecosystems’ health and the sanitary risks associated with wildlife tourism were produced by Hutan and were carried by the local English, Chinese and Malay press (12 articles).

Obj.1.3. Processes of orang-utan ecological adaptation to degraded and fragmented habitat are better understood

23 1.3.1. Eco-ethological study of habituated orang-utans at the Hutan Sukau Research Site The Sukau Research Site was established by Hutan in 1998 in 6.2 sq.km of secondary forests in the Lot 2 of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary near the village of Sukau. A team of 11 intensively trained local research officers - Hutan’s Orang-Utan Research Unit - take turns 365 days a year to track orang-utans in the forest and conduct eco- ethological observations. A wide range of data are collected on standardized datasheet including dietary observations, feeding behaviour, social aspects and ranging patterns: During the year 2009, we have achieved a staggering total of 3,750 hours of direct observations of 16 wild individual orang-utans. This is a 55% increase compared to 2008 and the highest record of orang-utan observation hours since the project started in 1998. The data is currently being processed and analyzed with the entire eco-ethological database of the past 10 years. Preliminary results on activity budgets for the year 2009 are presented in the chart below:

Activity budget of wild orang-utans at the Sukau Research Site (267 observation days)

Feeding 48.9% Travelling Social 23.8% Behaviour 0.4%

Resting Nesting 24.5% 1.2% Unknown 1.1%

1.3.2. Monitoring of orang-utan food diversity and abundance - phenology studies In order to better understand the seasonal variations in orang-utan food availability in the secondary forests of the Lower Kinabatangan, the production cycles of orang-utan food trees were monitored monthly at 12 botanical plots within the Sukau Research Site. These plots are located in the four habitat types used by orang-utans at the research site, i.e. dry dipterocarp forest, semi- inundated forest, freshwater swamp forest and riparian forest. A total of 358 trees species (from 87 genera) and 40 vine species (from 19 genera) were included in the phenology study. A team of four Hutan research officers carried out monthly 5-day surveys to record the proportions of various plant parts ( i.e. ripe and unripe fruits, mature and young leaves, young shoots and flowers) present on each of these 358 trees. A phenological index is assigned to quantify the monthly abundance of plant parts in each tree with values ranging from 0 (none) to 3 (maximum).

The production cycles of ficus trees, an essential source of food for the Kinabatangan orang-utans was also monitored. Hutan’s phenolgy team followed monthly56 ficus trees in the forests of the Sukau Research Site and 35 ficus trees along

the riparian forests of a 10km stretch of the Kinabatangan River.

24 Phenology of 358 orang-utan food plants in 2009 1 Flower Young Shoot 0.5 Unripe Fruits Index Ripe fruits 0 Monthly Average

Phenology of 56 ficus trees at the Sukau Research Site in 2009 1.5 Flower 1 Young shoot Unripe fruits Index 0.5 Ripe fruits

monthly Average 0 FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

1.3.3. Photo identification of wild orang-utans at the Sukau Research Site This picture shows the first orang-utans we met at the research site in 1998, a female carrying her one-year old son. We named them Jenny and Etin. Since then, we have been following Jenny practically every month of every year. We saw Etin grow up and learn from his mother how to survive in the forest. As an adolescent he started to build his own nest and travel by himself for increasingly longer periods of times. A genetic study in 2002 revealed

that an adolescent male we also knew well - Jago –was an older son of Jenny. In June 2005, Jenny had a new baby, Mallotus who is now a juvenile. In 2007, Jago started to develop small cheek pads, a characteristic of orang-utan flanged males. We have not seen him since 2008. In 2009 Etin also disappeared from the research site, probably to establish his own territory in another part of the forest.

Since the start of our studies 11 years ago, we have encountered more than 40 orang-utans within our research site. Some of them are residents and are often observed; others are transients and are only seen for short periods of time. Adult females with babies are the easiest to identify from the age and size of their child. Independent adolescents are difficult to identify from past encounters because their physical characteristics evolve rapidly. We sometimes meet unknown juvenile males. Some can be transient animals just passing through and Etin maybe one of them. The hardest challenge is to keep track of young males after they have developed into flanged males. It is possible that Jago has returned at the research site as a fully flanged male without us being able to recognize him.

In order to clarify the identity of unknown orang-utans at the research site, we will conduct a new genetic assessment in 2010. We have also set up a photo database of the orang-utans with detailed descriptions of their physical particularities. For this purpose, three staff of the Orang- Utan Research Unit were intensively trained in wildlife photography in 2009.

25 JULIANA AND FELICITY MAWAR AND LARA

Juliana is an adult female Mawar is an adult female recognizable by her long fringe recognizable by a bump on her

and sideburns. She has two bare forehead and her beard. She known offspring, Kecil (13 years) has two known offspring, Lara (3 and Felicity (3 years). years) and Manja (12 years).

MAGGIE, MAY AND ELIE MANJA

Maggie is an adult female with Twelve years old female, thick sideburns and bushy hair on daughter of Mawar. She has a her temples. She has two known remarkably thick and bright offspring, May (5 years) and Elie orange body hair and a mole on (6 months). her forehead.

LUAK OTTAI Utans of the Sukau Research Site -

Orang

Luak is a flanged adult male. His Unflanged male. His rather small

large body is covered with thick and stout body is covered with body hair. He has large cheek thick dark body hair. He has no pads, short hair on his head and a cheek pads. He has a straight hair 26 deep scar on his upper lip. part and a bump on his forehead.

Goal 2. Improved policy framework for wildlife population management within and outside of protected areas

Obj. 2.1. Policies based on scientific knowledge are formulated and agreed on by stakeholders for long term wildlife conservation in Sabah

Orang-Utan and Other Wildlife Conservation Plan for Kretam-Kulamba Forest Reserves Hutan produced this conservation plan for the Sabah Forestry Department in December 2009. It is based on the results of a series of wildlife surveys in the Kretam Kulamba Wildlife Reserves conducted by Hutan in 2009 (see 1.1.1.). The topics enclosed within this plan include habitat description, wildlife, ecological and conservation values, issues and threats, and management actions.

Recommendations for an Orang-Utan and other Wildlife Conservation Plan for the Forest Reserves of the Sugut Delta Hutan produced this report for the Sabah Forestry Department in July 2009. It is based on the results of the two wildlife surveys by Hutan in the forest reserves of the Sugut Delta (see 1.1.2.). The report includes an assessment of orang-utan and other key wildlife populations, a description of key natural features and their potential for ecotourism development, and of the major threats. It also includes recommendation for a Wildlife Conservation Plan for the area.

Orang-Utan and Other Wildlife Monitoring Strategy for Malua Forest Reserve Hutan produced this strategy for the Sabah Forestry Department in 2009 (see 1.1.3.). It contains the results of the intensive orang-utan surveys conducted by Hutan in the Malua Forest Reserve in 2008 and prescribes a range of management actions to monitor and preserve orang-utan and other wildlife populations in the reserve.

Resolution of the Orangutan Conservation Colloquium This resolution was one of the outputs of the “Orangutan Conservation Colloquium: Developing Models for Orang-Utan Conservation Within Fragmented Ecosystems” jointly organized by Hutan, the Borneo Conservation Trust, the Sabah Wildlife Department, the Sabah Forestry Department, the Land Survey Department of Sabah and the Malaysian Palm Oil Council in October 2009 (see 1.1.6.). The resolution was submitted to the Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment.

Draft Cabinet Paper to create Conservation Areas along major river systems in Sabah A draft cabinet paper has been prepared by Hutan in 2009 for the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment and the State Cabinet. This document is based on the results of the surveys by Hutan and the Borneo Conservation Trust to assess orang-utan situation within the oil palm landscape of Eastern Sabah (see 1.1.6.) and on the resolution of the Orangutan Conservation Colloquium (see above). It addresses the issue of fragmentation of orang-utan habitat by the uncontrolled development of the oil palm plantations in eastern Sabah.

27 Draft Cabinet to conserve the Bornean Elephant in Sabah

A draft cabinet paper has been prepared in 2009 for the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment and the State Cabinet to address the issues related to elephant conservation in Sabah. It is based on a resolution formulated and endorsed by the participants of the “First International Workshop on the Conservation of the Bornean Elephant in Sabah” held in May 2008 in Kota Kinabalu.

Best Practices and Sanitary Guidelines for Orang-Utan Tourism in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary Hutan and Red Ape Encounters have developed strict regulations for tourists and visitors at the Sukau Research Site. These rules aim at minimizing the negative impact that visitors may have on the orang-utans and the ecosystem (see 1.2.3.). This also contributes to the effort by the IUCN Species Survival Commission on Great Apes to formulate a reference document on the “Best Practices Guidelines for the Management of Great Ape Tourism”.

Obj. 2.2. Sabah’s efforts towards orang-utan conservation are supported and recognized by international conservation policies 2.2.1. The Great Ape Debate Hutan (Marc Ancrenaz) was invited to be one of the guest speakers at The Great Ape Debate set up by the English organization World Land Trust. Two public forums were held in London, aimed at raising awareness in the UK and internationally on great ape conservation issues.

A first public debate was convened and held jointly on 30 April 2009 by the World Land Trust and the Linnean Society in London on the theme “is orang-utan rehabilitation and reintroduction of rescued captive animals a viable way of conserving orang-utans or would resources be better spent on the purchase, protection and recreation of their natural habitats?" Conservation experts participating in the forum were divided in their opinions. The debate was chaired by The Earl of Cranbrook.

A second public forum was held on 27 November 2009 at the Royal Geographic Society in London and focused on the impacts of palm oil agriculture development on orang-utan conservation.

2.2.2. The Great Ape Health Workshop Hutan (Marc Ancrenaz) was one of the co-organizers of the Great Ape Health Workshop held in August 2009 in Entebbe, Uganda. This was the first workshop of the Great Ape Health Monitoring Unit (GAHMU) since its creation in 2004 in Leipzig, Germany. Hutan is a member of GAHMU

This workshop brought together experts in a wide variety of fields, such as veterinary medicine, parasitology, primate behaviour and ecology, and primate conservation. Discussions focused on issues relating to great ape health. i.e. habituation of great apes at new research sites, great ape ecotourism, health and hygiene protocols at research and tourist sites, vaccination of great apes against potentially deadly diseases. A major output of the workshop was the formulation of recommendations to be included in the IUCN’s best practice guidelines on the monitoring of disease in great apes.

28 2.2.3. Co-authorship of scientific articles published in peer-reviewed journals and books Goossens, B., Chikki, L., Jalil, F., James, S., Ancrenaz, M. et al. 2009. Taxonomy, gographic variation and population genetics of Bornean and Sumatran orangutans. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 1-13. Hardus, M., Lameira A., Singleton, I., Ancrenaz, M., et al. 2009. A description of the orangutan’s vocal and sound repertoire, with a focus on geographic variation. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 49-64. Husson, S., Wich, S., Ancrenaz, M. et al. 2009. Orangutan distribution, density, abundance and impacts of disturbance. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 77-96. Marshall, A., Ancrenaz, M. et al. 2009. Orangutan population biology, life history, and conservation. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 311-326. Marshall, A., Ancrenaz, M., et al. 2009. The effects of forest phenology and floristics on populations of Bornean and Sumatran orangutans. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 97-118. Morrough-Bernard, H., Knott, C., Wich, S., Van Schaik, C., Noordwijk, M., Lackman-Ancrenaz, I. et al. 2009. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 119 – 134. Muehlenbein, M.P., and M. Ancrenaz. 2009. Minimizing pathogen transmission at primate ecotourism destinations: the need for input from travel medecine. Journal of Travel Medicine 16 (4): 229-232. Prasetyo, D., Ancrenaz, M. et al. 2009. Nest building in orangutans. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 269-278. Russon, A., Wich, S., Ancrenaz, M. et al. 2009. Geographic variation in orangutan diet. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 135-156. Van Schaik, C., Ancrenaz, M. et al. 2009. Orangutan cultures revisited. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 299-310. Wich, S., de Vries, H., Ancrenaz, M. et al.. 2009. Orangutan life history variation. In Geographic variation in behavioral ecology and conservation, S. Wich, S. Utami, T. Setia, C. van Schaik (eds). Oxford University Press, pp 65-76.

29 Goal 3. Reduced level of conflicts between human activities and wildlife

Obj. 3.1. Levels of degradation and fragmentation of wildlife habitat are reduced through improved land use management in human/wildlife conflict “hotspots” 3.1.1. Forest Restoration in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary Forest degradation and fragmentation in the Lower Kinabatangan region constitute the major threats to the long-term survival of wildlife. Moreover, past logging activities have in places resulted in the destruction of the seed bank contained within the soil through soil compaction thus preventing natural forest regeneration. Since January 2008 Hutan has engaged in a new project to rehabilitate crucial orang-utan habitat in the Lower Kinabatangan. The project aims at recreating forest corridors to allow orang-utans and other wildlife (such as elephants) to move along the banks of the Kinabatangan river.

Four local women were hired in 2008 and trained for the initial phase of this project. Three plots were selected in the Lot 2 of the LKWS and a total of 1,752 seedlings were planted. In 2009, another plot was established and a total of 3,325 new seedlings were planted. Six species of seedlings were selected for this programme, all native, fast- growing species. i.e. Dracontomelon dao (Sengkuang), Octomeles sumatrana (Binuang), Microcos sp (Kerodong), Mitragyna speciosa (Sepat), Diospyros sp (Kayu Malam) and Sandoricum sp (Sentul Hutan).

The survival and growth rates of the planted seedlings were monitored monthly. It was established that while some species prefer dry open areas, others survive and grow better in shaded humid areas. Octomeles sumatrana (or “Binuang”) was the fastest growing species with an average height growth of 36 cm per month in 2008 and 40 cm per month in 2009. One of the Binuang trees planted in 2008 reached a height of 974 cm in 2009. Other species grew slower, from 12 to 18 cm per month.

Monthly Tree Monthly Tree Monthly Tree Tree species Height Growt Height Growth Diameter Growth in 2008 (cm) in 2009 (cm) in 2008-09 (cm) Kayu Malam 13 14 0.5 Diospyros sp Sengkuang 17 18 0.6 Dracontomelon dao Kerodong 12 13 0.7 Microcos sp Sentul Hutan n/a 13 0.9 Sandoricum sp Binuang 36 40 2.1 Octomeles sumatrana Sepat 15 15 n/a Mitragyna speciosa

30 All the species planted, except Octomeles sumatrana, are known to be commonly consumed by orang-utans at the Hutan’s Sukau Research Site. Octomeles sumatrana was planted because of its fast growing capacity. It provides shade to the other seedlings and will rapidly become big and strong enough to allow orang-utans to travel through the plots.

Seedling mortality in the plots was mostly caused by trampling by elephants passing through the plots. Other causes of seedling mortality included predation by pigs, deer, snails, caterpillars and other insects. Two plots (1 and 2) were equipped with an electric fence to prevent the elephants to enter the plots. The seedling survival rate in these plots was 90.98% and 78.86% respectively. The two thee plots (3 and 4) were unprotected and the survival rate was only 41.24% and 66.97% respectively. It is clear that electric fences should be used systematically to protect the reforestation plots. We also evaluated the seedling needs for maintenance for optimal survival and growth (frequency and methods of weeding) and found that they vary greatly from species to species.

Plot Number of Number of Number Plot Survival Protection surface seedlings seedlings of number Rate (acres) planted in 2009 dead in 2009 trees alive 1 Electric 2.6 1,020 92 928 90.98% fence Electric 2 1 402 85 317 78.86% fence No 3 3 1,576 926 650 41.24% protection No 4 2.5 327 108 219 66.97% protection Total 9.1 3,325 1,211 2,114 63.58%

Previous tree planting experiments by Hutan showed that a minimum of 2 to 3 years of regular weeding around the planted seedlings is needed to avoid suffocation of the young trees by climbing weeds. The overall costs for efficient forest rehabilitation are much higher than the mere cost of the seedlings purchase, mostly because the maintenance needs (workers’ salary, boats and petrol to access the plots, electric fences) to ensure the survival of the young trees are high. When local villagers are hired to maintain the restoration plots, benefits to the local community can be significant.

31 3.1.2. The Resang orang-utan bridge This experimental project by Hutan aims at re-connecting fragments of forest habitat for orang-utans and other non- swimming arboreal wildlife. It uses rope bridges across river tributaries where the natural tree canopy has been degraded and no longer allows wildlife to cross the rivers. A total of 7 bridges were built since 2005. In March 2008, a team from Japanese zoos came to Sukau to build an orang-utan bridge across the Menanggul River designed by zoo exhibit specialists and made of used fire hoses donated by the Osaka Fire Station. In April 2009, the same Japanese team came back to Kinabatangan to build a bridge across the Resang River. This time an architectural engineer was part of the team and had prepared a detailed design for the bridge.

3.1.3. Purchasing forests to create wildlife corridors in the Kinabatangan Habitat fragmentation along the Kinabatangan River seriously threatens the survival of 1,000 orang-utans, 200 elephants and other wildlife living in this region. Fragments of protected forests are interspaced with areas of privately-owned lands, some already converted to oil palm plantations but some still under natural forest cover.

Since 2005, Hutan has supported a community-based organization - the “Nature Heritage Conservancy” (NHC) – which works to identify privately-owned forested lands that are crucial in re-connecting wildlife habitat fragments in the Lower Kinabatangan region. International donors purchase these lands through NHC which ensures that these lands are acquired at fair prices and that they will remain under natural forest cover for perpetuity. NHC also encourages the donors to establish agreements with the local communities to use the purchased forested lands to develop sustainable socio-economic activities compatible with wildlife and habitat conservation. NHC thus ensures that the lands purchased provide high conservation benefits without depriving the local community of its cultural and natural heritage.

In 2009, 4 parcels of key forested land covering a total of 24.5 acres were purchased through NHC by the Borneo Conservation Trust Japan for a total of MYR 298,000 (USD 87,300).

32 Obj. 3.2. Illegal logging, poaching and other illicit activities are controlled in key wildlife habitat 3.2.1. The Honorary Wildlife Wardens Because of their remarkable wildlife diversity and abundance, and especially of their unique orang-utan population, the wetlands of the Kinabatangan floodplain were gazetted as a Wildlife Sanctuary by the Sabah Government in 2005. The Sabah Wildlife Department is responsible for all aspects of law enforcement in the Sanctuary but the agency still lacks sufficient manpower and equipment to adequately control illegal activities within these 26,000 ha of protected forests. Moreover, the 10 fragmented lots of the Sanctuary are surrounded by growing human activities, both by local communities and extensive oil palm plantations, increasing the risks of encroachment, illegal logging, poaching and other illicit activities.

Since 2005 Hutan has collaborated with the Sabah Wildlife Department on a model project where members of the local community are directly involved in the conservation and management of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment allows the Sabah Wildlife Department to appoint selected members of the public as “Honorary Wildlife Wardens”. A team of 20 wardens from the Kinabatangan community – mostly Hutan staff - were trained and conferred the same legal powers than those of the rangers of the Sabah Wildlife Department for enforcement of the law and apprehension of offenders.

Wildlife wardens act on a voluntary basis and are not remunerated. Hutan has been covering the salary of the wildlife warden project leader and his three full-time assistants, and provided the team with vehicles, boats, equipment and an office at the Hutan station. Hutan also financially supports all the activities of the Kinabatangan wildlife warden team. The objectives of the warden team include protection and monitoring of wildlife and habitat within the Sanctuary as well as community outreach and conservation programmes.

In 2009, project activities were conducted in close collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department staff and included daily patrols by boat and on land, night road blocks, inspection of Sanctuary boundaries, mitigation of human wildlife conflicts, wildlife rescues, elephant translocations, interview surveys as well as participation in Hutan’s community outreach and education programmes.

33 Distribution of Activities of the Sukau Wildlife Wardens in 2009

100

50

Numberof Days 0 River Patrol Day Land Patrol Night Land Wildlife Other Activities Patrol Management Activities

Obj. 3.3. Crop raiding by wildlife is reduced in industrial plantations and community areas 3.3.1. The Elephant Conservation Unit The Bornean elephant is only found in the Malaysian state of Sabah, with a few individuals roaming across the Kalimantan border. It is still unclear whether the Bornean elephant has been separated from the mainland’s population some 300,000 years ago or if it has been introduced only recently from a small number of imported domesticated Asian elephants. Today it is estimated that about 1,500 elephants live in fragmented populations in Sabah. With a population of about 200 individuals, the Kinabatangan floodplain has been identified as one of the four major ranges of the Bornean elephant.

However, the recent reduction, fragmentation and degradation of the forest habitats have resulted in the emergence of increasing conflicts between humans and wildlife, most notably with the elephants and the orang-utans. The disruption of the traditional elephant migration routes along the Kinabatangan River has forced displaced wildlife to look for alternative food sources in villagers’ orchards and small-scale oil palm plantations.

Since 2000, Hutan has been monitoring the levels of human-wildlife conflicts within the Kinabatangan region, assessed their causes and has worked with the Sabah Wildlife Department to develop innovative solutions to mitigate these conflicts. In 2002, Hutan set up the Elephant Conservation Unit (ECU) with the following aims:

x Mitigate human – elephant conflicts x Equip and train local farmers for elephant-friendly crop protection x Understand elephant raiding strategies x Study the socio-ecology of the Bornean elephant

x Raise awareness among the local community on the

34 importance of elephant conservation Hutan covers the salaries of the six ECU team members and provides the team with vehicles, equipment and an office at the Hutan station. Hutan also financially supports all the activities of the ECU team. Combining traditional knowledge of the local wildlife and area with intensive technical training, the ECU has so far succeeded in greatly reducing the extent of damages caused by wildlife to the villagers’ crops.

Elephant conflict mitigation In 2009, ECU carried on its routine activities of patrolling the boundaries between the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and village farms for signs of elephant encroachment and conducting elephant-raiding control at night in local farmers’ fields. ECU staff are on duty all year round to assist local farmers to protect their crops. In 2009, elephant raids occurred almost every month. Small elephant groups (less than 10 individuals) attempted to raid crops more often than larger groups and solitary bulls.

Figure 6.- Monthly occurrence of crop raiding attempts in the Sukau area in 2009 by different types of elephant groupings

Type of Elephant Groups JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC

Solitary Bull Small Elephant Group (less than 10 elephants) Large Elephant Group (more than 10 elephants)

Only 23 crop trees in the Sukau area were destroyed by elephants in 2009, a drastic reduction since before the existence of ECU when crop trees were damaged by the hundreds each year in the same area (see Fig. 6). ECU uses only non- harmful methods to repel elephants from farmers’ fields, such as noise canons, bright torch lights and loud-hailers. The Kinabatangan elephants are exceptionally gentle and rarely try to harm humans. They recognize the ECU staff and usually abandon their raid attempts at the mere sight of them. On occasion, a firm hand from the ECU staff is all that is required to deter the elephants from further crop raiding.

Impact of ECU's mitigation efforts on the yearly number of trees damaged by elephants in Sukau 780 800

600

400

200 85 35 32 42 0 7 23 0 Numberof Trees Damaged Average 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Before

ECU (2000 - 2002)

35 ECU also provided technical advice and training in elephant damage control methods to villagers from other areas in the Kinabatangan region and to the staff of large industrial oil palm plantations. Hutan has also set up a programme where young Sukau villagers are attached to ECU for periods one month at a time. These trainees follow the daily activities of the team, learn how to repel elephants from a crop field, collect socio-ecological observations, and generally acquire a much higher understanding and appreciation of these animals.

A representative from Hutan (Isabelle Lackman) attended the IUCN/SSC Asian Elephant Specialist Group’s Human– Elephant Conflict Task Force workshop in Beijing in July 2009. The workshop aimed at identifying the causes of human– elephant conflict and assessing mitigation methods used throughout Asia

Ecology of the Bornean Elephant In 2009, ECU conducted several studies to better understand the ecology of the Kinabatangan elephant population. These studies will serve as a basis to design a sound management strategy for the elephants in Kinabatangan, addressing the issue of human- elephant conflicts and ensuring the long-term survival of the population.

The first study focused on documenting elephant movement patterns and the fission- fusion system within the herd. Interviews in villages suggest that 20 to 30 years ago, the Lower Kinabatangan was home to one large elephant herd that used perform yearly migrations along the Kinabatangan River, moving seasonally from the estuary to the upper reaches and back. Today, habitat reduction and fragmentation forces the herd to split into smaller groups. These smaller herds now do not exhibit any obvious seasonal movement patterns.

In 2008, three Kinabatangan elephants were captured and fitted with satellite radio collars by the Sabah Wildlife Department, the Danau Girang Field Centre, WWF Malaysia and Hutan. In 2008 and 2009, the ECU staff and an MSc student of the University Malaysia Sabah tracked the collared elephants and their family units using telemetry. Data collected included grouping patterns of individuals within each unit, relationships within and between family units, relationships between bulls and family units, ranging patterns of each family unit, and association patterns between family units. A photographic database of family members was also created. Each elephant is given a name and its entry in the database comprises a detailed description of its physical distinctive signs (torn ears, scars, tail length, tusks, etc.), a series of photographs taken at different angles, etc. Thirty eight elephants have been included in the database so far.

36 Map of the movements of two radio collared elephants over a six month period. Elephants spent a significant amount of time in large oil palm plantations (yellow areas). The family units of the two radio-collared elephants comprised about 40 individuals which destroyed an average of 3 to 5 mature palms per day

A MSc student of the Antioch University New England used ECU’s data to design a model to predict elephant movements and human-elephant conflicts. Probable elephant migration routes were modelled using least-cost path and corridor analysis with the software, CorridorDesign. This software allows for the creation of habitat suitability models, the mapping in two dimensional forms of current corridors, the identification of bottlenecks, and the comparison of corridors with varying landscape characters.

A second study, which started in 2007 looks at the composition of the elephant diet. When tracking the elephants, ECU staff have been collecting samples of plants observed as being consumed by the elephants. Samples are brought back to the Hutan Research Station for identification. They are dried, processed and stored in our dry plant collection. To date, a total of 115 plant species consumed by elephants were identified, representing 33 families and 63 genera. Grasses (Poaceae, Graminae, Palmae, etc.) represent about 50% of the samples.

A third study was conducted in 2009 to assess the parasite load of in the Kinabatangan elephants. These elephants often roam outside of their natural habitat - in plantations and human settlements - and might be subject to high rates of human parasites infestation. Elephant dung samples from 16 different individuals were collected for basic screening of intestinal parasites. Most of the sampled elephants were infested with hookworms and with Strongyloidea parasites. Some of these parasites can be harmful to their host in case of severe infestation. But the overall parasite load was low. A more thorough study would be needed to investigate the effects of season, age-sex classes, stress and other parameters on the parasite loads of the Kinabatangan elephants.

Table showing the presence of

intestinal parasites in the dung of 16

37 Kinabatangan elephants

Individual egg hookworms Strongyloidea larvae Trichostrogyloidea Strongyloides adult E.coli coli B butschlii Iodamoeba trichuria Trichuris siniensis Clonorchis nana Hymenolepsis Diphyllobotrium latum Ascaridoidea Protostrogylus 1 3 3 2 3 1 1 2 3 3 1 3 3 1 4 2 3 1 5 1 6 5 6 1 3 1 7 2 8 2 1 9 5 10 11 1 1 12 2 3 1 13 2 2 1 14 1 2 1 15 2 6 16 5

Electric fences Electric fences are a very efficient method to control elephant crop raiding. Most large oil palm estates use them but villagers cannot usually afford the cost of such fences and suffer regular crop damages. Hutan has been giving micro-loans to village farmers to equip their communal fields with electric fences. Two other electric fences were donated by Hutan and Red Ape Encounters to protect village graveyards (elephants like to play with grave stones, uprooting and throwing them, and thus create much distress among villagers).

In 2009, ECU installed two more electric fences to protect Hutan’s reforestation plots in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary (see section 3.1.1.) to prevent elephants from destroying the planted seedlings.

38 Elephant rescues and translocations ECU also works with the Sabah Wildlife Department to rescue injured elephants in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and to translocate “rogue” elephants isolated in large oil palm plantations.

In May 2009, a young male elephant with a severe snare injury at its foot was rescued in a large oil palm plantation. It was brought back to Sukau, treated and kept into a pen for recovery. For three months ECU, WWF Malaysia and Sabah Wildlife Department staff took care of it but unfortunately it died of septicemia in August 2009.

In January 2009, the carcass of an adult female elephant was found by ECU in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. In July, another adult female elephant was found dead at the border of an oil palm estate. ECU assisted the Sabah Wildlife Department in performing the autopsy which revealed that she had been killed by a gun bullet.

In 2009, ECU also assisted the Sabah Wildlife Department capturing two individual elephants wandering in industrial oil palm plantations and translocating them to protected forest areas.

39 Goal 4. Enhanced community engagement in wildlife and habitat conservation Obj. 4.1. Indigenous communities are empowered in the management of local natural resources 4.1.1. Recovery of the Edible Nest Swiftlet Populations in Sukau Swiftlets are found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, building their edible nests in limestone caves. These nests are an important constituent of traditional Chinese medicine and, since the 14th century, their harvest and trade have thrived in the Lower Kinabatangan, developing into a deep-rooted tradition within the local Orang Sungai community. Three cave systems are found in the limestone outcrops of the Sukau area (Pangi, Keruak and Bod Tai). These caves were traditionally owned and exploited by local families but are now property of the government under the management of the Sabah Wildlife Department. Over the last decade, illegal harvesting of bird nests, indiscriminately destroying eggs and nestlings, caused a drastic decline in the swiftlet populations and even led to local extinctions (e.g. Keruak). Moreover, recent large scale forest clearing in the area and conversion of pristine forest vegetation into oil palm monoculture have altered the integrity of the ecosystem, reducing the quantity and variety of aerial insect food sources for the swiftlets. In December 2009, Hutan, Red ape Encounters and the Sabah Wildlife Department have decided to work cooperatively to develop a recovery programme to ensure the recuperation and the long term conservation of the edible nest swiftlet populations in the Sukau area. This project aims at combining conservation benefits with economic proceeds to the Sukau community with the following specific goals and objectives:

GOAL 1. RECOVERY AND PROTECTION OF HEALTHY AND BREEDING SWIFTLET POPULATIONS Obj. 1.1- To control illegal harvesting of swiftlets’ nests and other illicit activities harming the swiftlet populations and their habitat Obj. 1.2- To reduce the levels of forest degradation and increase the size of protected habitat around the swiftlets’ caves GOAL 2. ENHANCED SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE OF THE ECOLOGY, BREEDING BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION STATUS OF THE SWIFTLET POPULATIONS IN THE SUKAU AREA Obj. 2.1- To monitor trends in swiftlet population numbers and distribution, breeding rate and Obj. 2.2- To better understand the ecology and breeding biology of the swiftlet s in degraded and fragmented habitat GOAL 3. LONG-TERM SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF THE BIRDS’ NEST CAVES Obj. 3.1- To develop and implement a sustainable management system for the birds’ nest caves GOAL 4. ENHANCED AWARENESS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SWIFTLETS AND HABITAT CONSERVATION, AND OF BIRDS’ NEST CAVE SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT Obj. 4.1- To conduct education and awareness programmes focusing on swiftlet ecology and conservation as well as on the sustainable use of natural resources (i.e. birds’s nests harvesting) Obj. 4.2- To develop visitor facilities around the cave areas GOAL 5. PERPETUATION OF TRADITIONAL ORANG SUNGAI KNOWLEDGE ON SWIFTLETS, LIMESTONE CAVES AND NEST HARVESTING Obj. 5.1- To document and showcase the history, techniques and all forms of traditional knowledge on swiftlets, limestone caves and nest harvesting GOAL 6. SUSTANAIBLE SOURCE OF INCOME FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY Obj. 6.1- To develop and implement a sustainable ecotourism management plan Obj. 6.2- To develop a new ecotourism product operated by RAE on swiftlets, limestone caves and traditional harvesting of edible nests

40 Obj. 4.2. Model community initiatives lead to socio- economic and conservation gains Hutan is working to establish and strengthen alternative community initiatives for sustainable development compatible with the long term conservation of local natural resources in orang-utan habitat areas. In 2009, Hutan has worked closely with community-based ecotourism programmes, a community tree nursery project and local fishermen.

4.2.1. Red Ape Encounters and the Sukau Homestay Programme Red Ape Encounters – or RAE - was initiated in 2001 by Hutan, the Sabah Wildlife Department and a team of dedicated villagers of Sukau trained as research assistants and nature guides by Hutan. RAE and Hutan have worked together to train RAE’s local staff to aspects of ecotourism development and management, to design a sound business management plan, to develop unique ecotourism products and to engage the local community in sharing the ecotourism benefits. In June 2003, RAE obtained an inbound tour operator license from the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia. RAE is the first and only great ape tourism operator fully owned and managed by the local community in Malaysia.

Today, RAE has become a model project in regards to sustainable rural development managed by a community organization. It aims to integrate wildlife and habitat conservation together with responsible tourism for local sustainable socio-economic development. RAE conducts nature interpretation programmes in combination with a traditional cultural experience, and provides visitors with the opportunity to participate in orang-utan research and conservation efforts (www.redapeencounters.com).

The concept behind the project is to encourage community participation in protecting and managing the rich natural and cultural resources of the Kinabatangan while generating alternative sustainable financial income for the villagers. Tourism capital is channelled directly into the community through the utilisation of village services such as the Sukau Homestay Programme, boat rentals, and the use of local guides. Other benefits include distribution of tourist funds to a cultural performance troupe, handicraft artisans, as well as local grocers in the village of Sukau. This benefit-sharing concept induces the community to effectively manage and regulate the direction of tourism in the area, and to prevent negative and undesired effects of tourism development. In turn, the development of alternative income sources for villagers through ecotourism leads to active efforts by the community as a whole to ensure the long- term protection of the orang-utan and of its habitat in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

41 Sharing ecotourism benefits by Red Ape Red Ape Encounters' yearly gross income Encounters: Distribution of tourism income within for 2003-2009 the local community from 2003 to 2009 (total of RM (total MYR 1,240,453) 436,406)

400,000 Conservation 350,000 Cultural troups Fund Village car Local guides 2% 10% service 300,000 25% 11% 250,000 200,000 Village boat 150,000 service 18%

Gross IncomeGross in MYR 100,000 50,000 Sukau Homestay - Programme Other village 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 and B&B services 19% 15%

The Sabah Wildlife Department granted exclusive rights to RAE in operating within the boundaries of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and specifically within the established Hutan Sukau Research Site where multi-disciplined scientific research on orang-utans is conducted (see Goal 1). Visitors have the rare opportunity to learn how orang-utan ecological research is conducted and to better understand orang-utan conservation efforts. The guides are experienced local field research officers who provide valuable knowledge on various topics pertaining to orang-utans and their habitat. Face to face encounters with wild orang-utans are often the highlight of any visit to the Kinabatangan. The visitors also participate in forest restoration efforts by planting saplings of native trees species consumed by orang-utans. RAE also contributes five percent from its gross tourist income revenue to a Community Conservation Fund. This Fund aims at assisting local communities' tourism initiatives such as the Sukau Homestay programme and other local services (upgrading of facilities, training, etc.). The Fund also channels resources toward community-based initiatives contributing to the protection of local endangered wildlife and their habitat. The fund supports the Wildlife Warden Programme (See Goal3, Obj.2) and the Wildlife Conservation Unit (see Goal 3, Obj. 3) in projects such as electric fencing of the village cemetery to prevent elephants from raiding and damaging the gravestones.

In 2009, RAE received 209 tourists from 14 countries, roughly 16% less than in 2008. This decrease was mostly due to cancellations of a number of American tour groups as a result of the economic recession. The total gross income generated by RAE in 2009 was of MYR 233,879.01 (roughly USD 68,530).

A total of 1,207 visitors from 26 countries have come to the village in the last six years, enabling villagers to earn some MYR 1,240,453,48 (USD 363,450). The proceeds were shared among the Homestay Programme, the village boat and bus services, local tourist guides, the village cultural performance troupe, village grocery shops, etc. It is

estimated that about 550 villagers derived direct and indirect financial benefits from RAE’s activities.

42 4.2.2. Community tree nurseries In 2008, Hutan started to explore the potential of developing community tree nurseries as an alternative source of income for village families. In May 2009 Hutan gave Hamidin Braim, a villager with experience in tree nurseries, a micro-loan of MYR 10,000 (USD 2,930) to build a seedling collection centre at his home and purchase seedlings from villagers. Hutan and Hamidin gave appropriate training to village families to collect wild seedlings of selected native tree species and raise them in plastic polybags at their homes. Fifteen tree species were chosen, all consumed by orang-utans, and known to have relatively high survival and growth rates after being replanted.

Thirteen families set up their own home nursery in 2009 and sold their seedlings to Hamidin’s collection centre for a total price of MYR 9,419.80 (USD 2,760). Three agencies involved in forest restoration programmes (i.e. the Sabah Forestry Department, Hutan and Red Ape Encounters) purchased a total of 6892 seedlings from Hamidin for a total price of MYR10,966.00 (USD 3213).

Although of very modest scale, Hamidin’s initiative proved successful. The Sabah Forestry Department has already confirmed that it has recently engaged in large scale forest rehabilitation work in forest reserves of the Sabah interior and that its demand for native tree seedlings will considerably increase for the years to come. Community tree nurseries seem therefore to be viable conservation-oriented village development initiatives for the Lower Kinabatangan region and we therefore plan to replicate the Sukau nurseries model in the future

Expenses of the Sukau Tree Nursery in 2009 Expenses of the Sukau Tree Nursery in 2009 (Purchase of seedlings from villagers) (Sale of seedlings to reforestation programmes) Number of Price per Total Number of Price per Total Name of villager Seedlings Seedling Expense Buyer Seedlings Seedling Income Purchased (MYR) (MYR) Purchased (MYR) (MYR) Asli Indal 529 1.30 687.70 Sabah Forestry Dept. 5,520 1.50 8,280.00 Darianah Alun 684 1.30 889.20 Hutan 1,256 2.00 2,512.00 Asmidah Kassim 166 1.30 215.80 Red Ape Encounters 116 1.50 174.00 Zulkifli Ahaw 1000 1.30 1,300.00 Total 6892 10,966.00 Bahrani Elahan 1000 1.30 1,300.00 Rusiman Rukiman 431 1.30 560.30 Ahmad Kapar 255 1.30 331.50 Esri Masri 1000 1.30 1,300.00 Wasle Hj,Maharan 193 1.30 250.90 Abd,Rauf Musa 385 1.30 500.50 Zaiton Salleh 824 1.30 1071.20 Sahdin Hj,Lias 479 1.30 622.70 Saidi Hj,Sahidin 300 1.30 390.00 Total 7246 9,419.80

43 4.2.3. Fishermen for Conservation Communities living along the Kinabatangan River traditionally relied on the natural resources of the surrounding forests. The Kinabatangan River represents an important source of fish and prawns. The traditional methods of fishing included the use of fish and prawn traps made from tree bark, wood strips, vine, and rattan. The substantial loss of forests to oil palm plantations and the subsequent gazettement of the remaining forests to a Wildlife Sanctuary have impacted the gathering of the materials needed for construction of these traps. Consequentially, illegal felling of trees in the Sanctuary by fishermen to harvest tree bark has occurred on many instances. An innovative programme – Fishermen for Conservation – was established in 2004 by Hutan in collaboration with the Honorary wildlife Wardens and the Sukau fishermen. It aims at substituting the use of tree bark and other forest produces in the construction of the traditional fish and prawn traps by non-forest based and longer lasting material (such as plastic wire mesh and recycled linoleum). Hutan facilitated community dialogues in Kinabatangan villages and established a micro-loan scheme to allow fishermen to purchase their first rolls of wire mesh to build their traps. Since the project started, it has drawn very favourable reception from the area’s fishermen. The plastic traps proved much more resistant in the water than the wooden ones and fishermen were able to reduce the costs of renewing their trap pool.

In 2009, the Fishermen for Conservation initiative was extended to one more village (Kampung Boring) with an awareness campaign and community dialogues. By now almost 100% of the fishermen in 6 Kinabatangan villages use the plastic fish and prawn traps. Tree felling and bark harvesting has also dwindled within the Wildlife Sanctuary as a direct result of this community initiative.

44 Goal 5. Enhanced human resource capacity and commitment to manage and conserve wildlife populations in Sabah

Obj.5.1. Local capabilities enhanced among Malaysian conservation professionals 5.1.1. Training Sabahan conservation professionals In 2009, Hutan conducted a number of courses and provided technical training to a range of Sabahan conservation professionals including the following:

Nb. of Organization Trainers Date persons Course topic trained from Hutan trained Orangutan Orang-Utan Orang-utan and wildlife monitoring techniques, 6 to 17 May 5 Appeal Research Unit tree identification, parasitology Sabah Forestry 18 to 30 Orang-Utan Dept. Malua 5 Orang-utan and wildlife monitoring techniques May Research Unit Wildlife Unit Reforestation May 2009 Sukau families 10 Set up of home tree nurseries Unit October and Orangutan Orang-Utan Orang-utan habitat assessment surveys (survey 5 November Appeal Research Unit planning, data collection and statistical analysis) All year, 1- Orang-Utan month Village youth 7 Orang-utan research techniques Research Unit periods All year, 1- Elephant Elephant conflict mitigation and research month Village youth 5 Conservation techniques periods Unit Elephant Kinabatangan All year Over 50 Conservation Elephant conflict mitigation techniques crop farmers Unit Staff of four large Elephant All year Kinabatangan 25 Conservation Elephant conflict mitigation techniques palm oil estates Unit

45 5.1.2. Training of Hutan staff Since the start of the Kinabatangan Orang-Utan conservation Project, Hutan has placed a high priority on the intensive training of our local staff to conduct high quality research and conservation activities. In 2009, Hutan staff has attended a variety of courses, conferences and workshops described in the table below:

Nb. Hutan Date Place Trainer / Organizer Topic staff trained 28 – 30 Bangkok, Clouded Leopard and Small Felid 1 Kasetsart University January Thailand Conservation Summit 2009 21 -25 Singapore National 2 Singapore 5th International Hornbill Conference March Parks 27 – 30 Tropical Biology Workshop “Understanding Ecosystem 2 Sandakan April Association Services” Hutan communication March 2 Sukau Photo archiving officer Hutan communication March All staff Sukau Computer maintenance and antivirus officer 20 -21 July 3 Sandakan Nikon Malaysia Wildlife photography Chester, Environmental education programmes for 7 - 30 June 2 Chester Zoo UK school children 14-17 All staff Sukau Hutan’s accountant Accounting and financial reporting August Msc. Student from August 7 Sukau Mapping: GPS data collection and GIS Antioch University September 6 Sandakan Pacos Trust Writing up and independent journalism 28 Sept - 3 Kuching, Universiti Malaysia Conference on the Biology of Amphibians in 2 Oct Sarawak Sarawak the Sunda Region 4 – 10 Nature Conservancy Sukau Interview survey techniques October Indonesia October 4 Sukau Houston Zoo Wildlife photography Kota University Malaysia BSc. Course on Tropical Biology and All year 1 Kinabalu Sabah Conservation

In June 2009, two staff of Hutan’s Environmental Awareness Unit (HEAP) – Datu Mohd. Ahbam Abulani and Johry Bakri - traveled to England and spent three weeks at the Chester Zoo, one of Hutan’s European partners. They worked with the zoo’s education department and were trained in designing school environmental education programmes. They were also trained by the zoo keepers in animal husbandry techniques.

46 Obj.5.2. Level of environmental awareness raised among stakeholders, general public and school children Hutan’s Environmental Awareness Programme” unit (HEAP) was formed in 2008 and comprises four full-time staff. With the regular assistance of all other Hutan staff, HEAP aims at raising levels of environmental awareness among school children and local communities in the Kinabatangan region and throughout Sabah.

5.2.1. Environmental education programmes for school children in Sabah In 2009, HEAP conducted a total of 11 environmental education programmes in 10 schools and with various children organizations (six in the Kinabatangan region, one in Kota Kinabalu and even two in England). Activities were conducted in the classrooms, at the Hutan research station in Sukau as well as in the forest and included lectures, exhibitions, video shows, puppet shows, drawing competitions, quizzes, educational games, jungle trekking, boat safaris and outdoor camping. A total of 664 school children (primary and secondary students) and 63 teachers participated in these activities.

In February 2009, HEAP staff travelled throughout Sabah and visited a total of 17 schools to meet with principals and teachers to introduce HEAP programmes and discuss future collaborations.

Nb. of students Nb. of teachers Date School Type of programme involved involved Sukau Secondary Outdoor education camp, Lower April 2009 10 2 School Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary Int. Children’s Tree planting in the Lower June 2009 Conference on the 40 20 Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary Environment Environmental education classroom July 2009 Bilit Primary School 24 2 programme Environmental education classroom July 2009 Abai Primary School 35 5 programme Ranc.Suan Lamba Environmental education classroom June 2009 120 4 Primary School programme Suan Lamba Primary Environmental education classroom June 2009 70 3 School programme Kuala Suan Lamba Environmental education classroom June 2009 100 3 Primary School programme Sukau Secondary Outdoor education camp, Lower April 2009 15 2 School Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary March Kinabalu International Kinabalu International School Jungle 150 15 2009 School Bazaar. Rivacre Primary Environmental education classroom June 2009 50 3 School, England programme Elton Community Environmental education classroom June 2009 Primary School, 50 3 programme England Total 664 62

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HEAP also regularly participates in public awareness events related to nature conservation in Sabah. On 14-15 November 2009, HEAP held an exhibition booth at the “Orangutan Awareness Week” at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. About 200 local and international visitors attended the event.

5.2.2. Setting up an environmental education camp This year, Hutan decided to complement its range of environmental education programmes with outdoor school activities. In April 2009, Hutan began setting up a camping site next to the Lot 2 of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary. A 2-hectare area next to the Kinabatangan River – mostly cleared during former logging operations – has been selected for this project. This land was purchased by an international donor (the Alexander Abraham Foundation) within the context of Hutan’s efforts to create wildlife corridors in the Lower Kinabatangan (see section 3.1.3.). A small house was built next to the river with a kitchen and bathrooms. A tree planting plot was also set up to restore the natural forest (see section 3.1.1.) which will be used in education programmes. By December 2009, the preparation of the camping site was completed. Hutan expects to obtain relevant authorizations from the Sabah Education Department in early 2010 and to start the camping programmes by mid- 2010.

The camping site will be used mostly for 2 or 3-day programmes for school children, combining various outdoor activities such as jungle treking, orientation, wildlife viewing and interpretation, plant identification, tree planting, boat cruises, camp building and forest survival training. Programmes will aslo be offered to adult groups from government agencies, NGOs and the private sector.

5.2.3. Environmental Education Race The Environmental Education Race - or EE Race - is a teacher-training course in environmental education for in-service teachers. It aims at creating awareness among teachers on the importance of the environment and at teaching them how to bring this knowledge into their classrooms. The concept was developed 1998 by the Sabah Forestry Department based on the television show “The Amazing Race”. It features 80 % outdoor activities as well as participant-centred learning, group effort and environment-related assignments. More than 700 teachers have been trained so far. Hutan has participated in the organization of several editions of the EE Race.

In 2009, Hutan participated in the organizaton of an EE Race programme for secondary school principals which took place from 4 to 8 May 2009

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5.2.4. International Children’s Conference on the Environment The International Children’s Conference on the Environment (ICCE) was held for the first time in Sabah, in Sandakan on June 1 – 5, 2009. The event was jointly organized by Yayasan Anak Warisan Alam (YAWA, www.yawa.org), the Sabah Environmental Education Network (SEEN) Sabah Forestry Department, Education Department, Sabah Wildlife Department and Hutan

The ICCE is a biennial event organized by children for children. Seventeen members of the YAWA Junior Board worked for two years on the organization of this sixth edition of the ICCE with the assistance of their young counterparts in Sabah under the SEEN Junior

Board.

The 2009 ICCE focused on the issue of climate change with the theme “Sustain Today for Tomorrow - Rise Up!! Stand Up!!: Let’s Cool The Earth”. Keynotes speeches, workshops, environmental education activities and fieldtrips were conducted by experts in the related fields. Fellow delegates also gave project presentations and deliberated on how young people can help minimize global warming and take concerted action to cool the earth.

A total of 160 children between 10 -16 year olds from Sabah and Peninsula Malaysia participated in the Conference by organizing field trips to Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre, Sepilok-Laut Fishing Village, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Gua Gomantong and Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

Hutan hosted a group of ICCE delegates in Sukau for two days and the children participated in Hutan’s forest restoration effort by planting trees in degraded areas of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

5.2.5. Sabah Environmental Education Network Hutan is a member of the Sabah Environmental Education Network (SEEN). SEEN was established in 2004 as a framework to strengthen the capacity of agencies involved in environmental education in Sabah through institutional collaboration and information sharing (http://www.sabah.gov.my/seen/). SEEN members include various state government agencies and NGOs. SEEN organises quarterly members meetings and coordinates joint environmental education activities in Sabah.

5.2.6. Mothers’ day celebrations In May 2009, Hutan joined the women in Sukau to celebrate Mothers’ Day at the village community hall. This daylong event was organized by a local woman group with the aim of reaching out to the many women in this rural area who rarely leave their house to participate in village life. Activities included motivational speeches, charity donations for widows, single mothers and women without resources, handicraft and traditional cooking competitions and an evening of entertainment with games, traditional dances and an “elegant mother” competition. Hutan has been fully funding this event for the past three years and is taking this opportunity to raise environmental awareness among the village women who play a crucial role in the use and management of resources by village families.

49 5.2.7. Raising awareness on nature conservation issues In 2009, Hutan stepped up its efforts to raise awareness in Sabah and internationally on wildlife and habitat conservation needs. Hutan organized several workshops and conferences, and gave numerous presentations listed in the table below:

Hutan Date Host Activity Topic represen tative Zoos and Aquarium Committing to Workshop Marc 22 January How to create a conservation program Conservation Conference, Houston Zoo participant Ancrenaz Zoos and Aquarium Committing to “Biodiversity outside of protected areas: a Marc 25 January Presentation Conservation Conference, Houston Zoo forgotten battle?” Ancrenaz 14 – 19 Marc Woodland Park Zoo, Washington 3 presentations Hutan Programme January Ancrenaz 27 – 28 Marc Houston Zoo, Texas 2 presentations Hutan Programme January Ancrenaz 29 -30 Marc Portland Zoo, Oregon Presentation Hutan Programme January Ancrenaz 01-02 Marc Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri 2 presentations Hutan Programme February Ancrenaz 03-04 2 presentations Marc Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Ohio Hutan Programme February radio interview Ancrenaz 07-09 Marc Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania 2 presentations Hutan Programme February Ancrenaz Marc 10 February Princeton University, New Jersey Presentation Hutan Programme Ancrenaz 17-19 Marc Columbus Zoo, Ohio 3 presentations Hutan Programme February Ancrenaz In situ and ex situ orang-utan conservation 10-11 “Integrated approaches to orang-utan Harjinder Symposium organized by the Orang Presentation March conservation in Sabah, Malaysia” Kler Utan Island Foundation Great Ape Debate organized by World Marc 30 April Panelist Orang-utan rehabilitation and reintroduction Land Trust, London Ancrenaz Marc 2 May Chester Zoo , UK 3 presentations Hutan Programme Ancrenaz Elephant Family and World Land Marc 6 May Presentation Hutan Programme Trust, London Ancrenaz Workshop of the IUCN/SSC Asian Causes of human–elephant conflict and Isabelle 10 – 11 July Elephant Specialist Group’s Human– Participant methods used to mitigate such conflict in Lackman Elephant Conflict Task Force, Beijing Asia Arcus Foundation’s great ape conservation Marc 7 – 9 May: Arcus Foundation, Cambridge, UK Participant strategy Ancrenaz Group of students from Harvard “Biodiversity conservation outside of Marc 21 June Presentation University visiting Sabah protected areas” Ancrenaz Group of students from Cardiff “Biodiversity conservation outside of Marc 11 July Presentation University visiting Sabah protected areas” Ancrenaz “Orang-utan tourism in Asia: current 21 – 23 Symposium of the “Great Ape Health Co-organizer and Marc regulations and recommendations for August Monitoring Unit” in Entebbe Uganda presenter Ancrenaz tourism rules and regulations” 1-2 Co-organizer and “Status of orang-utans within the oil palm Marc Orangutan Conservation Colloquium October presenter landscape in Sabah” Ancrenaz Regional Forum on Enhancing Forest “Enhancing the connectivity of forest Marc 26 October Ecosystems Connectivity and Corridors Presentation ecosystems in multiple-use landscapes: the Ancrenaz within the Heart of Borneo, Sabah value of corridors for wildlife conservation”

50 Hutan Date Host Activity Topic represen tative 14-15 Orang-utan research and conservation Orangutan Awareness Week Exhibition booth HEAP Unit November programmes by Hutan 26-27 Arcus Foundation’s great ape conservation Marc Arcus Foundation, Cambridge, UK Participant November strategy Ancrenaz 27 Second Great Ape Debate organized Impacts of palm oil agriculture Marc Panelist November by World Land Trust in London development on orang-utan conservation Ancrenaz 23 Isabelle Woodland Park Zoo Seattle Presentation “Living with Elephants in Sabah, Malaysia” September Lackman Wildife conservation Network’ Expo Orang-utan research and conservation Isabelle 3 October Exhibition table Week, San Francisco programmes by Hutan Lackman Wildife conservation Network’ Expo Isabelle 3 October Presentation Hutan Programme Week, San Francisco Lackman Isabelle 12 October Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Presentation Hutan Programme Lackman Isabelle 13 October Denver Zoo, Colorado Presentation Hutan Programme Lackman

51 ANNEX 1

Resolution of the 2009 Orang-Utan Conservation Colloquium

The participants of the “2009 Orangutan Conservation Colloquium” held in Sabah, Malaysia, on October 1st - 2nd 2009,

™ note the importance of corridors within a fragmented landscape for biodiversity conservation, orang-utans and other wildlife, and recognize the need to re-establish connections between orangutan populations, ™ And arrived at the following priority recommendations by consensus:

GENERIC RECOMMENDATIONS • All recommendations above to be formulated by SWD as a position paper and endorsed by the Sabah State Cabinet. • Some of the action points below are already in existing policies or draft policies being considered by the Sabah State Government. It is therefore urged that the Sabah State Government implement these policies or approve the pending draft policies. • All these recommendations are not necessarily specific to orangutan conservation

SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendations pertaining to Land Issues We envision the creation of contiguous wildlife corridors of natural habitat in order to balance sustainable development and the conservation of orang-utans as flagship species for wider biodiversity. The development of such corridors must be pragmatic and enforceable through legal clarity and community engagement.

• Important forest fragments for orangutans shall be connected through wildlife corridors or additional patches of forest or other connectivity schemes as deemed necessary. • Wildlife corridors must be the minimum of 100 m along each side of all major rivers within the distribution of wild orang-utans, exceptions will be made where there are established villages. In cases where there are established villages, 100m wildlife corridors will circumvent the village boundaries. • Power in property and control of river (riparian) reserves (as implied in the Land Ordinance) within natural distribution of orang-utans should be delegated to Sabah Wildlife Department. Alienated land within the recommended 100m wildlife corridors to be acquired by SWD. • However NT will not be acquired by compulsory acquisition by the State or its appointed agent will enter into a private treaty agreement with individual land owners, and managed by SWD. • To mitigate against further deforestation/degradation, Government should shift target paradigms of measuring palm oil production from hectarage to yield/ha. • It is suggested that the State Government adopt a stringent policy in line with RSPO Principles & Criteria and ideally legislated.

Recommendations pertaining to land acquisition

The group envisages the creation of a contiguous green corridor through various means including compulsory acquisition:

52 x Acquisition of land along designated rivers and between isolated patches of forest supporting wildlife to provide for wildlife corridors in consultation with various stakeholders. x Create a sizeable fund to compensate landowners and to restore to its original natural forest state. x Enforce Riparian reserves to ensure legal compliance on biodiversity, amongst other existing laws/international agreements. x Management guidelines should be superimposed on NT Land that is necessary for the viability of a wildlife corrdior. Landowners will be compensated for the loss of opportunity income.

Recommendations pertaining to financial options The group aims at developing financing solutions for the effective rehabilitation and restoration of Orangutan habitat within the Kinabatangan Landscape as a model for Borneo.

x Mandate that all mills and supply bases within the Kinabatangan landscape be RSPO- (or other robust, credible and marketable certification scheme) certified, and this to be matched with policy incentives/disincentives from government. x Government, industry and stakeholders work together to brand RSPO- RSPO- (or other robust, credible and marketable certification scheme) certified sustainable palm oil from an OU landscape (Kinabatangan). Possible financial benefits derived from this action MUST be channelled back to the OU landscape (Kinabatangan) x Develop a landscape level carbon/PES/biodiversity trading bloc of landowners in the Kinabatangan landscape. x Multi-stakeholders to fund an expert group to identify transaction costs, funding sources and management plans for the Kinabatangan landscape to meet the overall objectives. Mechanisms: x Company-driven annual conservation budget allocation matched by government (double) funds constituent on RSPO certification. x Design a financing mechanism that would provide solutions for biodiversity conservation within the agricultural landscape, and package this mechanism into a proposal to be submitted for seed-grants/loans available from multi-lateral aid agencies within the climate change response arena. Specific sources are: ADB climate adaptation fund, GEF-Climate change seed grants, UNEP climate change programme, and the EU (dependent upon involvement of EU companies).

Recommendations pertaining to the establishment of forest corridors The group recognizes that forest corridors are crucial in maintaining and enhancing the ecosystem services of Sabah, including biodiversity and ecological integrity.

Recommendations: x Identify crucial forest fragments and connectivity needs to maintain and enhance the ecosystem services of Sabah. x Determine the width requirements of riparian reserves to maintain key ecosystem services provided by major river systems (e.g. Sg. Kinabatangan, Sg. Segama, Sg. Sugut), with the ultimate aim of demarcating them on the ground and giving them legal protection. x Review and formulate policies and legislation that facilitate the implementation of forest corridors. x At the replanting phase, as well as for new plantings, require agricultural land users to create and maintain forest corridors. This should be prescribed as an environmental impact mitigating measure as provided for under current environmental laws. x Restore connectivity between existing forest fragments. x

Explore possible incentives (e.g. tax deductions, grants) for the voluntary allocation of land for conservation

purposes, such as wildlife corridors.

53 Recommendations pertaining to translocation exercises Translocation is not a stand-alone solution for the long-term survival of orangutan populations but can be used as a management tool to complement the development of wildlife corridors in saving orangutans in fragmented landscapes.

x To undertake research and to develop criteria and guidelines for translocating orangutans in fragmented landscapes. x To develop funding mechanisms and capacity for release site assessment, translocation and post translocation monitoring of orangutans.

54 In 2009, KOCP activities were supported by the following partners:

Above 150,000 USD Arcus Foundation

Above 50,000 USD Chester Zoo (North England Zoological Society ) Houston Zoo US Fish and Wildlife Services

Above 20,000 USD Alexander Abraham Foundation Columbus Zoo Elephant Family Philadelphia Zoo Shared Earth Foundation

Above 10,000 USD Apenheul Zoo Australian Orangutan Project Margot Marsh Foundation Pittsburgh Zoological Society Saint Louis Zoo Wildlife Conservation Network Woodland Park Zoo World Women Work Zooparc de Beauval Zoo la Palmyre

Above 5,000 USD Borneo Conservation Trust Japan Cleveland Zoological Society GCMK Foundation Sea World Bush Gardens Conservation Fund

Above 1,000 USD Brevard Zoo Oregon Zoo Phoenix Zoo Utah Zoological Society

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