Innovation Report: Could you introduce the Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation and describe what makes up your DNA? What is the identity of the Institute?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim: Founded on June 6, 1996, at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), the Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation (ITBC) stands as a premier research institution dedicated to the protection and sustainable management of terrestrial biodiversity resources and natural ecosystems. Located in Borneo, specifically in Sabah, ITBC thrives in one of the world’s most renowned biodiversity hotspots. This unique positioning underscores the institute’s critical role in promoting awareness, education, and conservation of the region’s rich biological heritage.

The main DNA of the institute is to champion the preservation and sustainable use of tropical biodiversity through cutting-edge research, comprehensive training programs, and extensive educational outreach. Over the past 28 years, ITBC has solidified its status as a center of excellence, continually striving to innovate and achieve global recognition in the field of tropical biodiversity and conservation.

While Universiti Malaysia Sabah houses another institute dedicated to marine biodiversity, ITBC’s expertise and efforts are concentrated exclusively on terrestrial ecosystems. This singular focus enables ITBC to develop deep, specialized knowledge and foster significant advancements in terrestrial biodiversity conservation.

As ITBC advances, it aims to transition into a Higher Institution Centre of Excellence. This designation will position ITBC as the foremost reference for biodiversity-related research in Malaysia, aspiring to lead nationally and gain respect on a global scale. This ambition reflects ITBC’s commitment to expanding its influence and impact, driving forward the science of biodiversity conservation through innovation and collaboration.

ITBC’s long-standing dedication to its mission has resulted in numerous successes in research, conservation, and community engagement. The institute continues to push boundaries, leveraging its strategic location and expertise to contribute meaningfully to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

By fostering a deeper understanding of tropical biodiversity and implementing sustainable conservation practices, ITBC not only supports regional ecological health but also sets a benchmark for similar institutions worldwide. As it moves toward becoming a Higher Institution Centre of Excellence, ITBC remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence, innovation, and global leadership in biodiversity conservation.

Innovation Report: What motivated you to pursue a career in tropical biology and conservation, and what areas have you chosen to research over the years?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim: My field of study is ecotourism, which often brings to mind tourism and hospitality management. However, my focus is on using tourism as a powerful tool for conservation. From this perspective, it’s clear that we need an integrative approach—embracing multi-disciplinary and transdisciplinary research collaborations and networking—to effectively tackle conservation challenges.

Conservation isn’t solely about biology. It’s not just for biologists or ecologists; it requires integrating various sciences and non-sciences to develop holistic conservation strategies that protect biodiversity. This comprehensive approach ensures that we address all facets of conservation, from ecological health to community well-being.

Initially, I started my academic journey with a degree focused on freshwater fish species. Early on, I thought my career would be confined to freshwater ecosystems. Whenever I was invited to speak, the focus was always on freshwater fish. However, conservation is far more encompassing than a single species or habitat.

In pursuing my master’s degree in wildlife tourism, I explored how tourism could be harnessed to conserve wildlife species in Sabah. This journey taught me the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders, from local communities and industry players to tour operators and residents in buffer zones. These interactions provided me with insights beyond the biological perspective, emphasizing the socio-economic dimensions of conservation.

Conservation efforts often prioritize protecting specific species, such as elephants, but we must also consider the needs and perspectives of local communities. Focusing solely on biodiversity can overlook the human element, potentially leading to conflicts and unsustainable practices.

Through my research, I realized the importance of integrating science and non-science disciplines. This integration helps create a balanced approach where the environment, economy, and community needs coexist harmoniously. It’s about finding a way to protect biodiversity while also supporting the livelihoods and well-being of local people.

My passion for expanding my field of study to include community development, park and protected area conservation, and ecotourism stems from this holistic vision. By combining these fields, we can develop comprehensive frameworks that successfully and efficiently conserve our biodiversity resources. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable future where conservation efforts benefit both nature and people, ensuring long-term ecological and economic resilience.

Innovation Report: Can you give some examples of the type of research or specific flagship projects at ITBC that a wider audience should know about?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim: At ITBC, our projects are advancing beyond mere exploration; we’re now deeply involved in policy development, crafting comprehensive master plans, action plans, management plans, and blueprints. This strategic approach exemplifies our commitment to creating sustainable and impactful conservation initiatives.

A prime example of our innovative efforts is the Captive Elephant Management Plan (CEMP). Bornean elephants often find themselves in captivity due to injuries, human-wildlife conflicts, or the discovery of orphaned calves. The CEMP serves as a primary guideline for the ex-situ management of these elephants, ensuring their well-being and safety. It represents a model of collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and private entities, all working together to safeguard Borneo’s precious endangered species.

The CEMP outlines best practices for the humane treatment and care of captive elephants, emphasizing the importance of their physical and psychological health. This plan not only addresses the immediate needs of these animals but also sets a precedent for future conservation efforts.

Beyond the CEMP, ITBC is involved in several other critical projects:

1. Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM) Plan for Sungai Kinabatangan Basin, Sabah
2. Sabah Biotechnology Action Blueprint Study 2023-2034
3. Sabah Mineral Management Blueprint
4. National Planetary Health Action Plan
5. Global Environment Outlook-7
6. Kinabatangan Biosphere Management Plan
7. The Science Panel for Borneo   

These efforts highlight our commitment to holistic and sustainable management practices, addressing a wide array of environmental and ecological challenges.

It’s high time we bring our research findings to the forefront, bridging the gap between academia and policymaking. Leveraging the expertise of our scholars, we equip policymakers with the insights necessary to enact effective management strategies and advance biodiversity conservation in Sabah.

Our collaborations transcend borders, exemplified by partnerships with the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Queen Mary University of London, and Ghent University in Belgium. Together, we’re delving into the fascinating phenomenon of zombie fungi. This research, which explores the interaction between insect hosts and fungi, not only intrigues scientists but also captivates the public, offering a fresh perspective on the intricate web of life.

At the core of our endeavors is a quest to understand how fungi control their insect hosts, opening doors to innovative solutions such as biological pest control. Imagine managing harmful pests not with harsh chemicals but with environmentally friendly fungal biocontrols. This vision drives our collaborative efforts, pushing us to explore new frontiers and pioneer sustainable practices that benefit both nature and humanity.

By advancing these comprehensive and collaborative initiatives, ITBC is not only contributing to local and global conservation efforts but also setting a standard for future research and policy integration.

Innovation Report: How do you go about building partnerships with other stakeholders in society to advance your cause?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim: At ITBC, we recognize that effective conservation requires collaboration with a diverse range of stakeholders. Here’s how we build these essential partnerships:

Engaging with Local Communities

Creating awareness and fostering positive conservation behaviors among local communities is foundational. We design innovative and exciting projects that captivate interest and deepen understanding of biology and biodiversity. Our researchers strive to develop initiatives that engage and educate the public, making conservation relevant and accessible.

Collaborating with Industry

A prime example of our collaborative efforts is our involvement in Sabah’s mining sector. We conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments, a role traditionally filled by external consultants. However, there’s a growing trend of government agencies and other stakeholders seeking our expertise. By providing accredited, university-based knowledge, we ensure more reliable and impactful outcomes, emphasizing the importance of turning to academic institutions for environmental guidance.

Fostering Joint Research Initiatives

Effective conservation demands collaboration beyond isolated efforts. Currently, many research projects on tropical biodiversity in Borneo, are conducted in silos. This approach can lead to redundant or contradictory information. To avoid this, we foster joint research initiatives, encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing among various researchers and institutions. This integrated approach enhances the effectiveness and coherence of conservation strategies.

Establishing International Partnerships

International collaborations are crucial for advancing our mission. For example, we are partnering with a Chinese university in Jilin, China to develop a master’s program in herbal medicine. This collaboration aims to educate people on the significance of traditional herbal medicine while promoting sustainable practices. China’s technological advancements and funding resources complement our rich natural herb sources, creating a mutually beneficial relationship. Chinese herbs are often cultivated in labs, while our herbs are naturally sourced from jungles, offering superior natural product chemistry. This partnership enhances our research capabilities and ensures the sustainable use of herbal resources.

Enhancing Regional Leadership

Our primary goal is to establish ITBC as a leading research institution in Southeast Asia. By addressing regional conservation issues effectively, we aim to increase our visibility and reputation globally. Tackling regional challenges not only boosts our profile in Southeast Asia but also paves the way for recognition in major scientific arenas such as the UK and the US.

Through these multifaceted partnerships—engaging with local communities, collaborating with industry, fostering joint research, and establishing international alliances—ITBC is committed to advancing conservation science, fostering international cooperation, and promoting sustainable practices that benefit both biodiversity and communities.

Innovation Report: How is Malaysia progressing in its goal of conserving 30% of land for conservation? Are these goals achievable, and what role can research institutions play in the wider conservation efforts?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fiffy Hanisdah Saikim: Malaysia is steadfast in its commitment to conserving more than 30% of its forested areas by 2025, and we at the Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation (ITBC) are at the forefront of this national agenda. Our extensive biodiversity and conservation programs such as the Friends of BORNEENSIS and other initiatives are pivotal in supporting this ambitious goal.

Achieving these conservation goals requires robust collaboration between the government and research institutions. Substantial investment is essential to accelerate progress. Despite the abundance of NGOs and government agencies competing for limited resources, it is imperative that the Government prioritize and increase financial support for conservation efforts.

Currently, research and conservation efforts are often hindered by bureaucratic obstacles and insufficient funding. This impedes our ability to protect endangered species and manage protected areas effectively. When species face extinction, we often lack the capacity to intervene adequately.

To address these challenges, ITBC has proactively established academic chairs, known as “kursi” in Malay, to secure independent funding. Partnering with industry through these chairs enhances our research capabilities and ensures sustained conservation efforts. Extinction does not wait, and neither can our conservation actions. 

Grant applications frequently get rejected due to misalignment with funding trends, resulting in lost valuable research opportunities. Therefore, ITBC emphasizes the importance of industry partnerships and independent initiatives to bypass these funding challenges. Our academic chairs enable us to support critical projects and young researchers, ensuring continuous progress in conservation research.

Malaysia’s ambition to conserve 30% of its land requires not only increased funding but also a comprehensive strategy involving protected area management, habitat restoration, and biodiversity monitoring. In Sabah, for example, wildlife such as pygmy elephants and crocodiles face relocation due to insufficient habitats, leading to human-wildlife conflicts.

The government must allocate adequate funds to expand and enhance protected areas, which are currently overburdened. Community engagement and capacity-building investments are also crucial to foster sustainable practices at the grassroots level. Many communities have innovative ideas for conservation but lack the necessary support and guidance.

Research and innovation support is vital for advancing our understanding of biodiversity conservation. ITBC’s Biodiversity Academic Chair exemplifies this by funding essential research projects, even those previously rejected by traditional funding bodies. This chair also supports ongoing projects that benefit both the community and species conservation.

Our academic chairs play a critical role in developing young researchers, categorized into Cohorts A (Seniors), B (Mids), and C (Beginners) based on their experience. Cohort C researchers, often recent graduates, face challenges in gaining recognition and funding. The academic chair helps elevate their work, enabling them to contribute significantly to conservation efforts.

Malaysia’s conservation goals are attainable with increased government funding, enhanced protected areas, community involvement, and innovative research. By fostering strong partnerships and independent initiatives, we can ensure the protection of our rich biodiversity for future generations. Together, we can make a lasting impact and preserve the natural heritage of Malaysia.