KOTA KINABALU: Independent oil and gas exploration company Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad has intensified its environmental stewardship by rallying approximately 150 volunteers to safeguard Sabah’s coastal ecosystem.

The initiative was driven through the launch of the Mangrove Preservation Outreach Campaign 2026, held at the Darau Wetland Eco Tourism site in Menggatal near here today.

Carrying the theme “Shaping Tomorrow’s Mangrove Protectors Today”, the half-day environmental education and conservation programme successfully brought together a diverse group of participants.

The volunteer cohort comprised local university students, academic lecturers, members of the Kampung Darau community, and dedicated employees from Hibiscus Petroleum.

This year’s green campaign was executed in strategic collaboration with the Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society (SWCS) to amplify the impact of local wetland preservation.

The collaborative corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort primarily aimed to raise public awareness regarding the vital role mangrove ecosystems play in protecting vulnerable coastlines.

Additionally, the outreach focused heavily on educating the public about how these unique coastal forests support marine biodiversity and actively mitigate global climate change.

Speaking at the official launching ceremony, Hibiscus Petroleum Head of Operated Asset Sabah, Ahmad Fazmee Baharuden, emphasized the company’s long-term vision for regional sustainability.

“Through this campaign, we hope to nurture a deeper appreciation for these coastal forests and inspire young people to become advocates and custodians of the environment,” Ahmad Fazmee said.

Meanwhile, Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society president Datuk Zainie Abdul Aucasa praised the joint corporate-community model, noting that strong partnerships are highly effective for conservation.

“We commend Hibiscus Petroleum for its continued support, and we hope this campaign will inspire more people to play their part in safeguarding Sabah’s wetlands,” Zainie said.

During the event, participants attended expert-led educational sessions on wetland biodiversity delivered by the SWCS and the state Environmental Protection Department.

The campaign culminated in a hands-on tree-planting activity, where volunteers successfully planted mangrove saplings at selected restoration sites within the riverine wetland area.