Sabah's Pangolin Conservation: A Collaborative Effort to Save Endangered Species

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Shangri-La Rasa Ria have launched a joint scientific mission to study the possibility of establishing a new habitat for endangered pangolins within the Rasa Ria nature reserve in Sabah, Malaysia. The research team, led by Dr. Lauretta Andrew Lanang, a senior lecturer at UMS's Institute of Tropical Biology and Conservation, is utilizing cutting-edge technology like camera traps and GPS tracking to monitor the pangolins' behavior and movements. "This study has been ongoing for a year," explains Dr. Lanang, "and we're currently working with a student on this project. Based on initial data, there are approximately ten pangolins in the area, but we hope to find more." Fiona Hagan, General Manager of Shangri-La Rasa Ria, emphasizes the hotel's commitment to conservation and education. "We feel a responsibility to partner with organizations that have a long-term dedication to conservation and education," she states. The collaborative effort underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in safeguarding endangered species and promoting environmental awareness within the community.