SIDP 2009-2011 - Alternative Livelihoods Programme

Alternative livelihoods

The project is addressing the problem of over-fishing and loss of biodiversity by further developing the alternative livelihoods programme so that reliance on natural resources can be reduced. One of the possibilities being explored is ranching of invertebrates such as abalone and sea-cucumbers. Mature abalone (Haliotis asinina) are available locally and so far, spawning trials have yielded small numbers of larvae. Trials are ongoing and once production has increased, local communities will be trained in grow-out techniques as a first step in establishing small-scale sea-ranching enterprises.

In addition, opportunities exist to diversify into reef tourism and/or craftwork, and the project is working with local communities and Park staff to investigate options and develop some pilot projects. As a first step, SIDP and Sabah Parks organised an ‘Alternative Livelihoods’ workshop on Pulau Selakan. The community on this island are well established and have previously expressed interest in becoming involved in livelihoods connected with tourism in the Park. The workshop was attended by five guest speakers who gave expert and valuable insights into community based eco-tourism initiatives running elsewhere in Sabah, and the ways that the Selakan community could become involved in environmentally-friendly alternative livelihood initiatives.

After the presentations, there were separate workshop sessions to discuss the potential for the local community to get engaged in production of locally produced handicrafts, homestay enterprises and other tourism-related activities. The sessions produced much lively discussion and an important output of the workshop was the formation of an Action Committee that, with the help of Project staff, will take some of these ideas forward.

email:: info@sempornaislandsproject.com

Designed and compiled by Eliz abeth Wood & Andy Davies

URL http://www.sempornaislandsproject.com