SFD expedition makes new discoveries
KUCHING: Sarawak Forest Department ( SFD) researchers discovered several unique species and made new findings during their two-week scientific expedition at Banjaran Kelingkang in Sri Aman recently.
Among those encountered during the expedition were more than 20 types of fungal species, including the ‘ cendawan susu harimau’ (tiger milk mushrooms) which has medicinal value.
In addition, the researchers also found several species of plant such as forest ginger and ‘ Kacip Fatimah’, which also has medicinal value, as well as ornamental orchid species that have commercial value.
Apart from that, they also came across secondary forests that are more than 20 years old.
“What was interesting about the expedition was the discovery of a tree or host plant which serves as a place where the rafflesias grow,” said SFD senior assistant director Runi Sylvester Pungga at the expedition’s closing ceremony held at Rh Stephen Karin, Selepong Berangan in Sri Aman.
She hoped that residents around Selepong will care for the forests at Banjaran Kelingkang, which is their source of clean water.
“Taking care of the forests is a shared responsibility because with preserved forests and having clean water resources, this will enable Banjaran Kelingkang to be known as an eco-tourism site.”
Runi, who is also the expedition chairperson, pointed out that this
What was interesting about the expedition was the discovery of a tree or host plant which serves as a place where the rafflesias grow.
will not be the only expedition organised by SFD as more followup activities are being planned.
“All samples and specimens obtained during the expedition will be brought to our office in Kuching for further studies and action.
“Apart from researching plants and reptiles, the researchers will also be studying soils and hydrology at Banjaran Kelingkang,” she said, adding that at present, not much information on Banjaran Kelingkan has been documented.
The Banjaran Kelingkang Scientific Expedition, which was held from April 1 to 13, involved 45 researchers from the SFD Research, Development and Innovation Division who were also assisted by 11 locals.
Meanwhile, the closing ceremony saw groups conducting studies related to entomology, botany, conservation, land, mycology and hydrology presenting their research findings from the expedition.
Runi Sylvester Pungga, SFD senior assistant director