The Baram River Basin of Sarawak is rich in both ecological and cultural diversity, home to dozens of endangered species and resilient forest-based communities. However, in Long Liam, logging has drastically altered the forest landscape, with negative consequences for flora and fauna, as well as for the local Kayan population. Over the years, multiple timber extractions have degraded the forest, which has greatly reduced the availability of important natural resources, including building materials and food sources. Moreover, watershed degradation has impacted river water quality (the community?s main drinking water source), while increasing the risk of flooding and drought.

Deforestation has also robbed the community of key income sources, eliminating non-timber forest products that were previously sold in small amounts to cover children?s school fees and basic household necessities (e.g. cooking oil, salt, sugar, coffee). With increasing pressure and incentive to seek income from external sources, the community has seen an upward trend in urban migration among youth, which weakens the protection of customary land claims.

The above issues ultimately threaten the cultural survival of the Long Liam community, and the rainforest ecosystem that has been stewarded by the Kayan people for centuries. To address these challenges, this project will support the development of a youth-led reforestation ecotourism initiative, toward socio-environmental resilience and sustainable development. Through intergenerational collaboration, the project aims to revive traditional knowledge and reinforce sustainable practices, while expanding opportunities for youth. By developing green jobs in connection with reforestation, the project aims to support a solution that is impactful and sustainable in environmental, social and economic terms.

This project meets the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) Country Programme Strategy?s initiative to support community landscape conservation and biodiversity management, as well as the initiative to support inclusive development by prioritizing youth, indigenous communities and women.