Sabah gets RM30.7m biodiversity fund from federal EFT

What happened

Sabah has been allocated RM30.7 million this year under the Ecological Fiscal Transfer (EFT) for biodiversity conservation.

The announcement was made by Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup in Kota Kinabalu on Aug 19.

Cumulative allocation

This brings Sabah's cumulative EFT allocation to approximately RM157.05 million since the program began in 2019.

The 2026 allocation marks continued federal support for the state's conservation efforts.

Why it matters

EFT is a federal mechanism that incentivizes state governments to protect and manage biodiversity.

Sabah's forests and wildlife are key assets for Malaysia's environmental commitments and eco-tourism sector.

Impact on Sabah

The funds support conservation projects across the state, including protected area management and wildlife protection.

Local communities and conservation agencies will benefit from sustained financial backing.

Policy context

The EFT aligns with Malaysia's national biodiversity strategies and sustainable development goals.

The government has prioritized state-level funding to address environmental degradation.

Next steps

The ministry will continue disbursing EFT allocations to states based on conservation performance.

Observers expect similar announcements for other states in the coming weeks.