The Hornbill Award 2023

After a hiatus of a year, Hornbill Awards is back again for the 2023 edition! This time six worthy finalists from the shortlisted 2021 rounds were reassessed for this year’s 2023 Hornbill Awards.

2023 session was unique from previous years as surplus funds of RM140,000 from the 2023 National Climate Governance Summit would be given away as prize money.

….and the winners are; rainforest conservation NGO 1StopBorneo Wildlife, who walked away with the grand prize of RM100,000. A special award of RM40,000 was further awarded to Johor-based environmental education club Kelab Alami Mukim Tanjung Kupang.

Agenda:

10:30 am:   Welcome and opening remarks by Dato Henry Barlow

10:40 am:   Overview of THA by Serina

10:50 am:    Presentations: 

                        1 Stop Borneo by Shavez Cheema

                        Kelab Alami by Dr Serena Rahman

11:20 am: Panel discussion between 1 Stop Borneo & Kelab Alami, QnA moderated by Ar Dr Serina Hijjas

11:55 am: Closing remarks by Dato Henry Barlow

Shavez will discuss the benefits of establishing a wildlife paradise oasis, emphasizing its role in job creation, economic development, and biodiversity conservation within the park. Drawing on his experience as the only full-time nature NGO and wildlife travel company based in Tawau, he will highlight their achievements, including tree planting, rescues, school workshops, and publications. His successful conservation efforts at Tawau Hills Park and Deramakot underscore their dedication to the cause. Notably, tourist numbers at Tawau Hills Park surged in 2023, reaching a record high of 405 visitors, primarily from the UK and the Netherlands. Looking ahead, they are eager to expand their initiatives to Mahua, Serinsim, Imbak, Brunei, Bakelalan, and beyond.

Dr. Serena will discuss strategies to address the various challenges posed by climate change on Malaysian artisanal fishing communities, crucial for maintaining livelihoods, preserving heritage, and ensuring seafood sustainability. She will emphasize the importance of community empowerment and sustainable initiatives such as seagrass conservation and advocacy programs in protecting both the environment and the livelihoods of fishermen. By focusing on enhancing income opportunities and preserving traditional practices, Dr. Serena aims to secure economic viability while safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations.