NENGGIRI RIVER REHABILITATION PROGRAMME
The Nenggiri River Conseration Programme (NRCP) was established in 2004 following concerns expressed by the local community and other stakeholders over the degradation of Nenggiri River and loss of livelihood from fishing and other natural resource-based activities. NRCP was established by the Global Environment Centre and Titiwangsa Heritage Sdn. Bhd. in conjunction with local communities and the Kelantan State Government.
Objectives of the Programme
-
Enchance protection of natural resources and the environment in Nenggiri River Basin.
-
Develop sustainable use options for natural resources for local communities.
-
Assist in the establishment of conservation area in the Nenggiri River Basin.
Sustainable Development Options
Eco-tourism
Tourism is the second largest income generating sector in Malaysia and ecotourism is an important and growing source of revenue. The Nenggiri Basin has much potential for ecotourism. A newly completed highway provides access from west coast states via Cameron Highlands. The Nenggiri Basin offers opportunities for various types of outdoor adventures from white water raftinge, sport fishing, caving, jungle trekking and wildlife observation as well as the option of cultural experiences. With proper management, eco-tourism can generate significant benefits for the local community and other stakeholders.
Conservation
In view of the uniqueness and rich biodiversity within the Nenggiri River Basin, there is a need to control the exploitation of natural resources in the area and minimise the impact of development on the environment. The basin or parts of it should be extablished as protected or restricted utilisation areas.
NRCP Achievements To-Date:
-
Set-up of an information or training centre cum secretariat office in Gua Musang.
-
Extablishment of a fish conservation area covering 30 km of the mainstream and three tribuaties of the Nenggiri River (through Titiwangsa Heritage Sdn. Bhd. and thestate Government.)
-
Creation of a local community patrolling group to protect the fish conservation area from illegal fishing.
-
Construction of a field base and visitors camp at Kuala Jenera.
-
Increasing visits to the area by eco-tourism and recreational fishing groups.
Contribution from Partners
Various contributions have been made by partners to support the on-going programme:
-
The Kelantan State Government supports activities through development of policies and enforcement with assistance from relevant state agencies such as Forestry Department, Fisheries Department and local government.
-
Titiwangsa Heritage Sdn. Bhd., an eco-tourism company , has spearheaded the development of eco-tourism facilities and promotion of the area for eco-tourism and sport fishing.
-
South Kelantan Development Authority (KESEDAR) has funded the construction of visitor facilities and organisation of tour events.
-
Global Environment Centre has overseen the development of educaiton materials and community activiteis and organisd technical studies.
A grant for the first phase of the programme in 2003 was provided by:
The Netherlands Government, through the Partners for Wise Use of Wetlands Programme.
Funding for the second phase of the programme was provided by:
-
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
-
Danish Foreign Ministry - International Development Associate (DANIDA)