Alternative Livelihood Workshop for Stakeholders of TMP

Posted by: Hui Ling


Participants of Alternative Livelihood workshop at the end of Day 1.


Over 60 stakeholders from government agencies, the private sector and local communities within the proposed Tun Mustapha Park (TMP) took part in an alternative livelihood workshop, aimed at exploring sustainable business opportunities within the Kudat-Banggi Priority Conservation Area, in Kudat from 8-9 February 2011.

The first day of the workshop consisted of a series of talks on WWF’s alternative livelihood programmes, eco-tourism potential, fisheries, sea cucumber and virgin coconut oil processing; followed by group discussions. Study visits were conducted the following day to a fish cage and ecotourism operation in Tampakan; a bee and honey processing centre at Kg. Gambizou; a Maranjak longhouse homestay at Kg. Bavanggazo; a gong making centre at Kg. Sumangkap; and a virgin coconut oil processing centre near Simpang Mengayau at the Tip of Borneo.


Discussion on what alternative livelihood means to the group.

Participants who live in mainland coastal areas of Kota Marudu and Pitas were mostly interested in the production of virgin coconut oil. This is due to the abundance of coconut trees along the coastal areas and also because the processing of virgin coconut oil is cheap and has good marketing potential.

Participants living on the islands preferred eco-tourism options, such as homestay and tour guiding; and rearing and processing of sea cucumbers. The two alternative livelihoods appear to be affordable as natural resources such as coral reef, beach, forest, marine life and wildlife are readily available and in close proximity to the participants’ homes.

Those who have embarked on alternative livelihood projects shared their experience through lessons learnt and problems faced. One villager from Kg. Pansuran spoke of owning a small scale fish farm. Two members of PEWANIS (Persatuan Wanita Kampung Mangkok, Setiu, Terengganu) shared how the women in their community work together on a livelihood project that benefits the environment and builds their capacity (language skills, marketing and public speaking).


A gong maker at Kg. Sumangkap demonstrating her craft.

It is hoped that participants from the workshop will be inspired to start their own alternative livelihood projects after seeing how successful some villagers already are within the proposed TMP.

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