Expeditions and other fieldwork

Sarawak — The Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) Ordinance, 1997 and the Sarawak Biodiversity (Access, Collection and Research) Regulations, 1998, are two laws that have been enacted by the State to achieve the twin aims of protecting Sarawak’s biodiversity and recognising its importance. Under the Regulations, anyone who wants to access, collect, do research on or use the biological resources of the State is required to apply to the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre Council for a permit. Penalties for accessing, collecting, or doing research on the biological resources of the State without a permit are a fine of up to RM 20,000 and/or a jail sentence of up to three years. The Permit system is to ensure the proper regulation of access to and utilisation of the State’s biodiversity. Furthermore, it will ensure that research on and utilisation of Sarawak’s rich biodiversity will be conducted with mutual benefits to all concerned parties.