World · Malaysia Bureau
States urged to shift from logging to ecotourism ventures
Four state governments have been called upon to develop ecotourism as a sustainable alternative to forest logging. Conservation experts warn that continued deforestation increases vulnerability to floods, landslides, and water scarcity.
LSN Malaysia ·
Conservationist Andrew Sebastian has urged four state administrations to pivot toward ecotourism development as an economically viable alternative to logging operations that threaten forest ecosystems across the region.
Sebastian highlighted the cascading environmental risks posed by accelerated forest cover loss, warning that deforestation significantly elevates the risk of catastrophic flooding, landslides, water supply disruptions, and prolonged droughts. These climate-related hazards carry substantial economic and social consequences for affected communities.
The conservationist's advocacy reflects growing recognition among environmental stakeholders that ecotourism can generate sustainable revenue streams while preserving forest assets. Unlike extractive logging practices that deplete natural resources, ecotourism models maintain forest cover and create long-term economic incentives for conservation.
State governments face mounting pressure to balance economic development with environmental stewardship as climate-related disasters increasingly impact agricultural productivity, water security, and public infrastructure. The shift toward nature-based tourism represents a strategic opportunity to align revenue generation with ecosystem preservation and disaster risk reduction.
The initiative comes amid broader regional efforts to implement sustainable land-use policies and meet international climate commitments through forest protection.