“PA FINANCING PROJECT” (PIMS 3967) Progr

PA Financing Project
NSC Report 2/2015
ENHANCING EFFECTIVENESS AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF
PROTECTED AREAS IN MALAYSIA
“PA FINANCING PROJECT”
(PIMS 3967)
Progress Report: 2/2015
(23 November 2015)
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NSC Report 2/2015
Introduction
The Progress Report 2/2015 highlights the achievement and status of implementation of PA Financing
project activities for the period covering May 2015 till November 2015. This report is to be disseminated
to the National Steering Committee members and tabled at the 6th NSC Meeting on 27 November 2015
to be adopted. The following sections illustrate the implementation of planned activities for the reporting
period by project outcomes, component, management, and budget.
PROJECT OBJECTIVE
To establish a performance-based financing structure to support effective protected area (PA)
system management in Malaysia
Financing Structure
A national performance based financing structure has not yet been established. However, a pilot scheme
is being introduced through the National Natural Resources Conservation Trust Fund (NCTF) which has
been established by the Government with seed money of RM 10 million. This amount is earmarked for
distribution to State Governments, PA Networks, NGOs and other eligible recipients. The PA Financing
project assisted the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE) to develop the governance
structure for administering the Fund and the “Operating Guidelines” developed by the Project were part
of the agenda at 1st Fund Committee Meeting held on 21st April 2015. The fund was launched on 17th
November 2015 and is now open for proposals which are to be submitted online. The application forms
and guidelines may be accessed from the Ministry’s website.
The project is receptive to any further requests for support from NRE to strengthen the management of
the Fund by developing a Strategic Plan for its implementation, which would include a Resource
Mobilization and Communication Strategy.
In terms of financial allocation, based on input from the relevant PA Agencies, Johor National Parks
Corporation (JNPC) registered an increase of 10 percent annually for its operating budget: from RM 5
million in 2010 to RM 7.6 million in 2014. The allocation to Perak State Park Corporation (PSPC) remained
the same. For Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia (DWNP), the operating
budget is around RM 15 million (for PA management), registering a marginal increase.
In 2014 both JNPC and PSPC received additional financial support for development programmes from the
Federal Government. For JNPC, an additional RM 22 million was provided through East Coast Economic
Region (ECER) to build and upgrade road facilities to Endau-Rompin. For PSPC a total of RM 16 million has
been allocated to build a jetty. Revenue collected by PA agencies through entrance fees and other charges
registered a steady increase due to an increase in tourist and visitor arrivals. For JNPC, revenue collected
at Endau-Rompin NP and other parks was retained in JNPC for reinvestment into park services. Whilst for
PSPC funds collected were was channeled into a State Trust Account. Collections from Taman Negara NP
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were partly channeled into the Pahang Trust Account, the state treasury in Kelantan and Terengganu, and
partly into the Federal Account.
In terms of strengthening the management capacity of PA Networks, the project provided funding support
for capacity development including participation in conferences, workshops, and training courses
conducted both locally and internationally. The project supported three participants: two from DWNP,
and one from JNPC to attend the three-month “Advanced Course in Wildlife Management” conducted by
the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) from 1st November 2015 until 31st January 2016. An officer from
Sarawak Forest Department was supported to participate in a month long training conducted by “Korea
National Parks Friendship Programme” held in June 2015. In addition, the Project also provided financial
and technical assistance to conduct a series of training activities by DWNP, JNPC and Institute of
Biodiversity (IBD).
One of the significant achievements during this reporting period is the successful launch of the six-week
“Effective Protected Areas and Wildlife Management” training course. The specialized training
programme is being held from 20th October till 4th December 2015 at IBD, Lanchang, Pahang. The inaugural
batch of 14 trainees come from the different PA Networks across the country.
Outcome 1: Systemic & Institutional Capacities to manage and financially support a national PA system
1.1
National PA Framework established in support of developing uniform criteria for PA
establishment and management standards
Preliminary work on this outcome has already commenced with consultation meetings with PA networks,
agencies, and State government. The advertisement for the job was placed in electronic media in October
2015 and was closed on 30th October 2015. UNDP is currently undertaking the technical and financial
evaluations on the proposals received. The study is expected to commence in January 2016.
The main tasks of the consultancy are:
 To review the existing legal instruments under different PA Networks.
 To carry out gap analysis in terms of legal framework, institutional arrangements and capacity
development needs amongst the different PA Networks (including Sabah and Sarawak) for
adoption and implementation of a single framework.
 To conduct gap analysis on key habitat types for future incorporation into PAs based on Aichi
targets for representativeness.
 To identify and determine the common elements/factors between various legal instruments that
could provide the basis for creating a single framework.
 To develop a standardized set of national PA categories based on globally accepted criteria or
categorization such as those set by the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA).
 To conduct consultation and advocacy initiatives between the Federal Government, State
Governments, and different PA networks on the adoption of a single framework and the long term
benefits of such a system.
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1.2
Establishing and Operationalizing the National Natural Resources and Conservation Trust Fund
(NCTF)
A short term consultant was appointed in February 2014 to develop a Strategy Paper to provide guidance
on the establishment and operationalization of a Conservation Trust Fund. Following the Government’s
decision in October 2013 to establish a Malaysian Conservation Trust Fund with seed funding of RM10
million, the Study’s focus shifted towards assisting NRE to operationalize the proposed Fund. The NRE
obtained Cabinet approval in June 2014 for the establishment of the Fund which was officially named the
National Natural Resources Conservation Trust Fund (NCTF). At a meeting held with NRE on 23 July 2014,
it was explained that the Fund’s management will be governed by Section 10 of the Treasury Regulations.
The Trust Deed of the Fund which details the utilization of the fund was approved by Parliament in
November 2014.
At the request of the NRE the Project produced a draft “Operating Guidelines” for the Fund taking into
account the legal provisions of Section 10, of Treasury Regulations. The draft was further deliberated on
in a number of meetings held at NRE, and the final draft was tabled at the 1st Fund Committee (Board)
Meeting held on 21st April 2015. The NCTF was launched on 17th November 2015 with an official call for
applications. Application guidelines may be found on the Ministry’s website. The Project is prepared to
offer additional support to the Ministry, in terms of strengthening the management of the Fund. This
support may involve developing “Strategic Plan” and “Resource Mobilization Strategy” exploring the
options for additional sources of funding.
1.3
To conduct a Malaysian TEEB (The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity) study to
recognize, capture and demonstrate the total economic value of PAs in order to justify increased
investment in PA management
The aim of the study is to value and capture the total economic value of these areas. The draft of Terms
of Reference for the Study was referred to relevant stakeholders including UNDP Country Office (UNDP
CO) and Regional Office for inputs. The TEEB Study would conduct initial economic valuation providing
inputs into a subsequent financial planning study which could commence towards the end of the TEEB
Study. The advertisement for the job is expected to be placed in various media by November 2015. The
TEEB Study for the three focal sites (Taman Negara NP, Royal Belum State Park and Endau Rompin NP) is
expected to commence in the 1st Quarter of 2016.
1.4
Development of a Protected Area database
Objective 1.3 of the Project states that a “PA information and knowledge management system [should
be] established to support the national PA system management”. To this end, a meeting was held with
Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) to explore the feasibility of FRIM hosting a PA database in
conjunction with its Biological Diversity Clearing House Mechanism (http://www.chm.frim.gov.my/)
which it maintains.
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Dr. Saw of FRIM took the opportunity to present the online platform that they have already built to serve
as a database of protected areas. The site is functioning but it is not visible to the public for now as the
data to represent the protected areas in Malaysia is not complete.
The Project team assessed that the PA platform developed at FRIM was robust and adaptable enough to
fulfill our expectations of a national PA database. To enable it to be launched, however, it is important to
consult with all relevant stakeholders in order to establish a common understanding of the purpose of the
database and the benefits of developing such a system. The next step would be to develop consensus and
cooperation to collate data on Malaysian PAs from the relevant states government and PA agencies. FRIM
has expressed its commitment to continuing to maintain and update this database.
It was proposed that with NRE’s endorsement, the Project could initiate a Protected Area Database
workshop be held to bring together key state and Federal agencies so that decisions can be made
collectively on the content, presentation, and mechanism for managing and updating the PA database.
Such a meeting will provide clear directions and consensus on how to move forward.
Outcome 2: Technical and Institutional Capacities to manage sub-national PA networks, including
capacities for effective financial management
2.1
Project coordinators and coordinating mechanisms with states
The Project Coordinator for the Eastern Region (Pahang) Mr. Rajan Samikannoo commenced work
effective from 1 October 2014 while the Southern Region Project Coordinator Ms. Chin Sing Yun started
from 1 December 2014. The process of recruiting a new candidate for the Project Coordinator for the
Northern Region has been completed. He will commence his duty from 1 December 2015.
The Project Coordinator for the Eastern Region is based in the DWNP Pahang while the Southern Region
Coordinator is based in the JNPC office. The Project Coordinators are responsible for planning and
implementing project activities at their respective duty stations. Since the appointment of the
coordinators, liaison with State agencies has improved and they have helped the Project to strengthen
coordination with other stakeholders at the focal sites.
2.2
Meetings with State Counterparts
During the reporting period the following planning meetings were held involving state and PA Network
counterparts.
2.2.1
Johor
The PA Financing project and its planned activities was presented to the Board of Director of JNPC
by JNPC, which were chaired by Chief Minister of Johor, on 28th July 2015. The meeting took note
of the Project and there was no objection to the planned activities.
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Meetings were held with the State EXCO of Health and Environment and UPENJ in Nusajaya on
29th July and 30 July 2015, respectively. The meetings provided an opportunity to update those
present on project progress and to discuss the finding of the recent stocktaking and gap analysis.
At the meeting, a thorough review of the JNPC enactment was highlighted as a possible activity
to address some of gaps identified towards better management of the PAs in Johor.
The meeting also acknowledged that a workshop on “Sustainable Financing on PAs” was proposed
to be held in Johor in November 2015. UPENJ agreed to take the lead in holding the workshop
with support from JNPC and the project.
The workshop was held on 3rd November 2015 in Johor Bahru with a total of 52 participants. The
sessions explored a range of potential opportunities and sustainable financing mechanisms that
could be suitable for environment conservation and protected areas in Johor and Endau-Rompin
Johor NP. The outcome from the group discussion was encouraging and a State Conservation Trust
Fund has been proposed for consideration. The Johor state government also seeks to improve
coordination and support through a dedicated budget for conservation from the Federal
Government. A summary of discussions and resolutions from the workshop will be presented to
the State EXCO of Health and Environment of Johor.
2.2.2
Perak
The Project organized a meeting with Dato’ Nolee Ashilin bt Dato’ Mohammed Radzi, EXCO
Pelancongan, Keseniaan dan Kebudayaan, Kerajaan Negeri Perak on the 28th May 2015 in Ipoh,
Perak. The meeting provided an opportunity for the Project Team to brief and update the Project’s
support to Perak in collaboration with PSPC. The Project Team highlighted capacity development
support offered to PSPC and the consultancy to develop a “Management and Business Plan” for
Royal Belum State Park.
Dato’ Nolee welcomed the technical assistance offered by the Project which complements current
initiatives undertaken by State Government particularly in its efforts to develop the state as a
premier ecotourism destination. Royal Belum State Park is regarded as a highly significant
protected area in the state’s network of natural areas.
In addition, Dato’ Nolee provided some guidance and clarification on the process for presenting
and obtaining the necessary endorsement for the draft “Management and Business Plan” and
other intended outputs from the Project. It is necessary to table these to the Board and EXCO for
formal adoption. In addition, she advised the Project Team to consult UPEN Perak on specific
Project related issues in order to determine the next steps to proceed with the Project’s activities
at state level. Subsequently, a meeting was held with UPEN Perak, on the 15th June 2015. The
meeting was chaired by Director of UPEN and attended by various state agencies. At the meeting
it was decided that all project outputs and recommendations are to be tabled and presented to
UPEN, and that UPEN will be responsible for determining if there are any issues that need to be
taken up at Board or EXCO levels for further endorsement.
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2.2.3
Pahang
The Pahang State Coordinator organized two coordination meeting with Pahang BPEN on 30 June
and 30 September 2015 respectively. The first briefing was to update the new Head of the Sectoral
Division of the BPEN Pahang. During this meeting the Head of the Sectoral Division suggested
that a formal briefing be given to the state EXCO. The Meeting on 30th September 2015 was to
brief the Deputy State Secretary on the PA Financing Project and update him on its progress as
well as to receive feedback on the progress of the state’s proposal to establish a corporation to
manage protected areas within the state. These meetings also focused on elaborating capacity
development needs within the state.
2.2.4
Extension of Project support to Sarawak
A meeting was held with the Sarawak Forestry Department (SFD) in Kuching on 23 June 2015.
The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss proposals for project support to protected
areas and PA agencies in the state. The proposals discussed were as follows:Project assistance to prepare a Management and Business Plan for Bako National Park
For Bako National Park, SFD acknowledged that the current management plan prepared in 1998
needs to be updated. The agency welcomed the project’s offer to provide technical assistance to
develop a new management and business plan for the park. This is also seen as an opportunity to
build capacity among staff of SFD and Sarawak Forest Corporation.
The Management and Business Plans will be developed by a consultancy in close consultation with
the key agencies and Sarawak with assistance from PA Financing Project Team and UNDP.
Technical support to host the 2nd Asia Parks Congress in 2018
In principle, the project is willing to provide assistance to the government of Sarawak if Malaysia
is successful in its bid to offer itself as a venue for the 2nd Asia Parks Congress. Officially there is a
need for Malaysia to become a member of the Asia Parks Partnership Programme in order to
qualify to formally nominate Kuching as a venue. In the meantime, it was agreed that consultation
between PA Financing Project and Sarawak Forest Department will continue to explore the
assistance to be rendered by the Project.
2.2.5
PA Financing Project Planning Retreat: 10 – 12 August 2015, Melaka
A Planning Retreat was organized by the Project Management Unit (PMU) from 10-12 August
2015 with the participation of representatives from the PSPC, JNPC and, PA Financing Project
Team.
The purpose of the meeting was to align the Project’s targets, activities, and budgetary allocations
in light of new developments and progress of implementation of the Project activities.
Specific sessions were organized for the following objectives:6
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


To review the Strategic Results Framework and overall project Work Plan contained in the
Project Document, including end of project targets, indicators by outcomes, outputs and
activities.
To review the Annual Work Plan (AWP) for 2015 and its budget allocation in order to make
necessary adjustments to allocations for project activities for the remaining period of the
Project.
To prepare for the project’s Mid-Term Review expected in September 2015.
Taking into consideration project progress to date, participants critically evaluated the feasibility
of achieving project targets within the remaining timeframe. Consideration was given to
possible revisions and modifications to the outputs, activities and targets. The Strategic Results
Framework (SRF) from the Project Document was used to guide the discussion. A revised SRF
(see Annexe 1) was produced to reflect the proposed changes to be tabled at the NSC meeting
scheduled in November 2015 for endorsement.
2.3
Strengthening the Institute of Biodiversity (IBD)
2.3.1
Effective Protected Area and Wildlife Management (EPAWM) Course 2015
The six-week specialized training course was successfully launched on 20th October 2015 and will
run till 4th December 2015. Training is conducted mainly at the Institute of Biodiversity (IBD) in
Lanchang, Pahang, although fieldwork will be carried out in Penang National Park, Royal Belum
State Park and Sungkai. The detailed schedule for the course may be viewed in the Annexe 2. The
inaugural batch of 14 participants are from DWNP, JNPC, and agencies in Sabah and Sarawak.
The course represents an important achievement for the project for the following reasons:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
It fulfills the specific output of developing and introducing a specialized training course
tailored for national needs to strengthen protected area and wildlife management in the
country.
The training programme is open to all PA Networks and agencies involved in protected
area and wildlife management, and is the first attempt by IBD/DWNP to offer training to
all national PA agencies.
The development of the training programme which started in mid-2014 has been driven
by DWNP. A Technical Working Group (TWG) was established at an early stage and several
senior officers have been actively overseeing the necessary consultation and planning
phases to properly elaborate a national training programme that addresses the diverse
skills and competencies required of protected area managers.
Resource person and faculty were identified from local higher learning institutions. In
addition, DWNP officers supported to attend the three months WII training course were
actively engaged in the development of course curriculum and modules.
The project has provided an estimated RM 700,000 to cover the total cost of developing
and conducting the EPAWM training course, inclusive of reference materials and
specialized equipment needs.
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Outcome 3: Effective site-level PA management
3.1
Management and Business Plans for the three target sites: Taman Negara National Park (TNNP);
Royal Belum State Park (RBSP) and Endau Rompin Johor National Park (ERJNP)
The consultancy to develop Management and Business Plans for the three sites commenced in March
2015 and will run till November 2016. A planning meeting was held at DWNP in early March to introduce
the consultancy team members to the PMU and discuss the planned activities and management
arrangements. State-level stakeholders meetings were conducted on the following dates.
States
Johor
State-level stakeholder meetings
12 April 2015
20 August 2015
Meetings with UPEN
30 July 2015
Pahang
15 April 2015
28 Aug 2015
30 September 2015
Perak
3 September 2015
15 June 2015
Other consultation sessions:
3.1.1
National Stakeholders’ Workshop for a standard template for Management and Business Plans
The National Stakeholders’ Workshop for the formulation of a national standard template for
Management and Business Plans was held from 17-18 Aug 2015 in Penang. A total of 50
participants from across Malaysia participated. The Workshop helped to build consensus on the
format and expectations for Management and Business Plans for protected areas and a draft
Standard Template and Table of Contents has been developed and to be presented to the State
for endorsement.
3.1.2
Community Stakeholder Consultation
Community Stakeholder meetings were carried out at focal site level by Dr. Agnes Lee Agama with
the assistance of state project coordinators to gain a better understanding of community and park
dynamics which will inform the social component of the Management Plan. Field visits were
carried out to Endau Rompin Johor NP (ERJNP) from 8 - 14 Sept 2015 and Kelantan and
Terengganu for Taman Negara NP (TNNP) from 27 Oct – 4 Nov 2015.
The objectives of this consultation was to gain insight into the history of community-park
relations, community expectations of park management authorities, and aspirations for
community development in the context of being closely associated with a major protected area.
These consultations will inform proposed approaches to engage with local communities within
the Management Plan for the park.
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3.1.3
Stakeholder Meetings with NEPCon consultants
A series of consultation meetings and site visits were arranged for NEPCon’s consulting team to
meet with stakeholders for Taman Negara NP (29 Sept -3 Oct 2015) and ERJNP (4 - 7 Oct 2015) as
part of its role in preparing the Management and Business Plans for the focal sites. Meetings were
held with DWNP Pahang, UPEN Pahang, TNNP and ERJNP.
To date the consultancy has produced three deliverables as scheduled:
i.
Detailed work plan including methodology, agreed allocation of tasks amongst team
members, deliverables and milestones, and travel plans.
ii. Report on Stocktaking and Gap Analysis.
iii. Standard Template that includes core elements, appropriate approach, preliminary M&E
system, timeline for developing the plans and stakeholders inputs.
The first draft of the Management and Business Plans is expected to be produced by the end of
2015.
3.2
Capacity building for PA agencies and Site level staff
Several capacity building activities have been organized based on consultation with the respective
PA agencies.
3.2.1
Interpretation Skills Training for Park Management
An Interpretation Skills Training Course was held from 23 - 27 August 2015 at the Nature Education
and Research Centre (NERC), ERJNP. The course was organized by JNPC and supported by DWNP
and the Project to strengthen interpretation skills amongst JNPC’s staff and the local community.
A total of 30 participants from JNPC, DWNP, Johor Forestry Department and local villages
participated in the training.
Participants have expressed their interest and support for follow up training activities. It has also
been suggested that training opportunities could be designed specifically to build capacity among
nature guides, and to enhance other aspects of managing visitors such as front-desk management,
visitor management, and basic identification of flora and fauna. Enhancing English communication
skills has been highlighted by both staff and local participants as one of the specific areas where
they would benefit from further support.
3.2.2
Exchange Programme for TNNP staff and State UPEN to ERJNP (Peta Entrance)
An exchange programme to Endau Rompin Johor NP for Taman Negara NP staff and officers of
BPEN Pahang and Terengganu was held from 19 - 22 Oct 2015 with a total of 15 participants. The
main objective of this Programme was to build cooperation between PAs which could foster
greater linkages and exchange of ideas in wildlife and biodiversity protection, eco-tourism
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management, as well as community-based management practices. Special briefing and sharing
sessions on the management of JNPC and the Park were conducted at night and the exercise was
fruitful and useful for all participants. It was suggested that staff of ERJNP should also be given
the opportunity to visit Taman Negara NP in order to learn from their operations and
management systems.
3.2.3
Support for World Rangers Day gathering in Sabah
The project supported six rangers and protected area staff from PSPC, JNPC and DWNP to attend
the World Rangers Day gathering hosted by Sabah Parks and WWF Malaysia (Sabah) in Crocker
Ranger National Park from 5th to 8th August 2015. The organisers were successful in bringing
together PA frontliners from Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia in this historic gathering.
The meeting was considered a success and it provided a rare opportunity for rangers to share
their knowledge, experiences, and challenges, particularly in fulfilling their complex roles while
facing various resource and management constraints. WWF Malaysia is preparing a full report
with recommendations from the gathering, some of which might be put forward for support from
the PA Financing Project in 2016.
3.2.4
Basic Training Course for Drone Operation
The Project supported a week-long training course for ten DWNP officers to operate ‘drones’ that
have been purchased by DWNP to be used for wildlife monitoring and surveillance. The course
was held at Paya Indah Wetlands in October 2015 and participants have shown a demonstrable
improvement in their ability to handle the new equipment. Subsequent courses are planned to
enable those that have undergone basic training to continue to develop and sharpen their skills.
3.2.5
Korea National Parks Friendship Programme
The Project sponsored an officer from Sarawak Forest Corporation to attend the month long
programme held in Korea in June 2015.
3.2.6
Advanced Wildlife Management Training Course at Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
The Project has provided financial support to cover the cost for three participants (two from
DWNP and one from JNPC) to attend the three-month training course in WII from 1st November
2015 till 31st January 2016. However, DWNP has withdrawn the participation of its officers from
the programme due to internal administrative constraints.
3.2.7
Capacity building needs evaluation
In order to derive useful recommendations from the METT Assessment and Capacity
Development Review exercise conducted this year, planning meetings were led by both State
Project Coordinators to explore potential capacity building activities that could be supported by
the project in 2015 and 2016.
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Agency
DWNP
26 Oct 2015
Description
Training Needs Assessment
DWNP has undertaken a training needs assessment (TNA) previously,
however there is a need to conduct a fresh exercise to update this
assessment and to develop a structured training programme for enhancing
capacity in key areas related to PA management.
Upcoming training activities
Two skills-building courses are being supported by the project and these are
scheduled for implementation in January and March 2016: Boundary demarcation and use of total station
 Upgrading skills in boat handling
JNPC
Training Needs Assessment
JNPC has not previously conducted a training needs assessment and this is
one of the specific areas they believe the project can provide support to
them. JNPC has submitted a list of proposed training areas – this includes
enforcement, conflict management, community engagement and
community based conservation approaches, resource monitoring, and
courses for nature guides.
JNPC also highlighted the need to enhance social skills to enable park
managers to cultivate a more conducive working relationship with
indigenous communities within and adjacent to the park. Enhancing
exposure to other parks where local people are also closely involved in
aspects of park management and are regularly consulted with would also
provide some basis for moving forward beyond conflict to collaboration.
Upcoming training activities
An exchange programme is being planned for the staff of ERJNP and the local
community to enhance their knowledge of park operations, management,
and community based eco-tourism programmes. This will be carried out in the
1st Quarter of 2016.
3.3
Communications support for Taman Negara National Park
The project is supporting the production of map/brochures to promote awareness and appreciation of
the unique features of three park entrances and to provide practical information for visitors to these
areas. A Visitors’ Guide to Taman Negara is also being prepared.
3.3.1 Kuala Tahan trail map/brochures
For Taman Negara NP, a total of 13,000 trail maps/brochures highlighting trails and activities to
be accessed from the Kuala Tahan entrance have been printed and delivered to DWNP HQ. The
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map have also been officially handed over by UNDP to DWNP. DWNP has decided that the
proceeds from the sale of the map/brochure for Kuala Tahan will go into the Tabung Amanah
Konservasi Biodiversiti with the view to generating the funds for future reprints and publications.
To formalize this arrangement, the proposal has first to be tabled at a meeting of the
Jawatankuasa Tabung Amanah. Once this is completed, the map/brochures will be put on sale. It
was decided that some of the trail map brochures will be used for distribution, while the rest
would be for sale.
Revisions to the Bahasa Malaysia version of this map were completed in early November 2015
after incorporating additional input from the Department’s Penerbitan Committee. The maps are
now being readied for printing and 13,000 copies of the BM version are expected to be delivered
to the DWNP HQ by end-November 2015.
3.3.2
Trail Maps for Sungai Relau and Kuala Koh entrances to Taman Negara NP
For the Sungai Relau and Kuala Koh entrances, an A4 sized map/flyer in two languages has been
produced so that park staff have a convenient reference map to highlight trails and sites of
interest to visitors. Copies of these maps are intended to be provided to visitors without charge.
A total of 2,500 each of each version of the Sungai Relau map, and 1,500 of each version of the
Kuala Koh map were printed. The number to be produced was determined by annual visitor
statistics furnished by DWNP’s Ecotourism Division. The project will arrange to deliver the maps
to the respective entrances and conduct a short training session in how they may be used to
orientate first-time visitors to the park. The maps may also be made available from the
Department and Project websites.
3.3.3
Visitors’ Guide to Taman Negara
The first draft of the Visitors’ Guide has been submitted to DWNP and is currently being reviewed.
In addition a number of images submitted by amateur photographers and nature lovers have been
shortlisted for inclusion in the book. The project team will coordinate with UNDP to purchase the
rights to use these images in the Guide. In order to finalize the content of the book prior to layout,
a final editorial review session is planned for early December 2015. The review will involve all
relevant subject experts from the Department in order to ensure that the information provided is
current and the publication serves as an authoritative and useful resource. According to this
schedule, it is expected that the final product will be printed in January 2016.
3.4
Preparation of Map/brochures for Endau Rompin and Royal Belum
Attractive trail map/brochures are currently being developed for Endau Rompin NP and Royal
Belum State Park. The trail maps have the objective of promoting awareness of the natural values
of the protected area while providing a useful guide for visitors. For Endau Rompin NP, both the
Peta and Selai entrances will be provided with a trail map/brochure.
Editorial consultants completed fieldwork in Royal Belum State Park and Endau-Rompin Johor
National Park in July 2015. Unfortunately, the lead consultant sustained serious injuries in a road
accident and work was suspended for almost three months while she received treatment and
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rehabilitation therapy. A new timeline has recently been submitted by the consultant which will
see all three maps completed by the first 1st quarter of 2016. The draft text of the Royal Belum SP
map text has recently been completed and has been forwarded to PSPC for review prior to the
preparation of the artwork.
3.5
Media Forum on “Bringing issues related to conservation and protected areas in Malaysia to
the public”
A Media Forum was jointly organized by the Project with WWF Malaysia and with the support of
UNDP and DWNP on 27 October 2015 to:•
•
•
•
bring together both media practitioners and conservation communicators to discuss ways to
improve public awareness and appreciation of protected areas in Malaysia;
promote understanding of the contemporary challenges faced, as well as some of the positive
steps being taken to strengthen the effectiveness of protected areas and conservation action
nationwide;
seek insights from the media on factors influencing stories being carried with the view to
improving how newsworthy issues are packaged and highlighted; and
provide information on current initiatives and programmes being pursued under DWNP/PA
Financing Project and by WWF Malaysia with the view to identifying opportunities for
collaboration with the media.
A total of 24 participants attended the Forum, including 15 members from the media. The
discussions were lively and insightful with all participants offering useful ideas on how
conservation organizations and PA agencies can work together more effectively to place
conservation and protected areas in the spotlight and generate greater interest among the public
and engender greater commitment from decision makers.
Some specific recommendations for follow up:i.
ii.
iii.
Media mailing list: Arising from suggestions mooted by media participants, a media
mailing list is being prepared so that upcoming Project activities and milestones can be
highlighted ahead of time to enable journalists and producers to plan feature articles or
coverage.
Opportunities for content development: Some of the media groups such as Mediaprima
and Astro suggested subsequent meetings to discuss a series of articles or shows featuring
protected areas and protected area management. The project team to follow up.
Travel to protected areas: It was suggested that the Project could travel to the focal
protected areas to feature some of the positive impacts arising from the PA Financing
Project or important issues to be highlighted. This could be something we could plan for
2016.
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3.6
Use of equipment donated by project at focal sites
Both JNPC and PSPC have each received eight camera traps to enable them to undertake wildlife
monitoring. These camera traps have been installed and are already yielding valuable data and
images that are enabling park managers to gain a better understanding of wildlife diversity,
population density and ranging behaviour within the parks. Both agencies have requested further
support in the form of additional camera traps and other essential field equipment such as walkietalkies, repeaters, and satellite phones to enhance communications and coordination, particularly
for enforcement purposes.
Additional financial assistance was also provided to DWNP for purchase of accessories to support
the use of Total Station purchased last year.
Component 4: Project Management
4.1
Project Management, Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
Day to day operations and project administration is the responsibility of the Project Management Unit
(PMU) and DWNP as Implementing Agency. The overall progress is monitored through monthly PMU
meetings which include representatives from Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment; UNDP;
DWNP and project staff. During the reporting period two PMU meetings were held. A planning retreat
involving the participation of JNPC and PSPC representatives was held in August 2015.
4.1.1 Preparation for Mid-term Review
The planned Mid-term Review has been postponed to 1st Quarter of 2016. During the Mid-term
review, Project Team members are required to be on hand to facilitate the Review process. UNDP
will make arrangements for the appointment of the Review Team and propose a detailed activity
plan which will include visits to the focal sites. The review is intended to evaluate activities and
achievements in the past three years and suggest adjustments if necessary to keep the project on
target.
4.1.2
Mid-year Progress Report
The Project submitted its Mid-Year Progress Report to UNDP and EPU at the end of June 2015.
4.1.3
Project Implementation Review (PIR)
The Project Implementation Review (PIR) was submitted in August 2015. The Project is expected
to register an overall “satisfactory” performance rating for July 2014 – June 2015. On the report
and its contents the Project has received positive remarks from the assessment team at GEF.
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4.1.4
Review from Planning Retreat, 10 – 12 August 2015
As mentioned in 2.2.5, the Planning Retreat held in Malacca from 10 – 12 August 2015 to evaluate
project progress and review the Strategic Results Framework with key state agencies. The
objectives and associated activities for the different project components were reviewed to see if
they are still relevant in light of contemporary developments and if they are still achievable. The
full Strategic Results Framework may be viewed in Annexe 1.
Arising from the review, the following changes to the wording of these objectives were
proposed:Objective 1.5.1: To establish a national performance benchmark for the PA management system.
Proposed rewording: “Options will be analyzed and pilot tested through NNRCTF for the
establishment of national performance benchmark for PA management system”.
Objective 2.3.2: To explore the possibility for establishing a sustainable financing Unit within the
PA network.
Proposed rewording: “Strengthen the existing organizational structure with the provision
of the relevant capacity for sustainable financing planning for PAs”.
Objective 2.3.3: To build skills in proposal writing, financing, park management and
communication at the PA network level.
Proposed rewording: “To strengthen capacity of PA management at PA network level.”
Objective 2.4.2: To develop the institutional capacity of the Centre to pursue its objectives.
Proposed rewording: “To strengthen the institutional capacity of the Centre to pursue its
objectives.”
In addition, it was proposed that the following Objectives be dropped from the Framework
based on the justification provided below.
Objective 1.2.1: To identify and agree on biodiversity/ecological indices as part of a performance
management and monitoring system.
Reason for removing objective: To avoid duplication of efforts. This objective is being
addressed more thoroughly by the IC-CFS Project which is developing a Biological
Intactness Index.
Objective 1.4.1: To compile cases where special budget lines have been created to cater for the
needs of PA management.
Reason for proposing objective be removed: It is no longer relevant as similar cases have
been compiled under the NBSAP and BioFin project.
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Objective 1.5.3: To establish a special budget line for Taman Negara and Johor Parks as a test of
Park Management performance by 2015.
Reason for proposing objective be removed: 1.5.3 is not feasible under the current
government system.
Objective 2.3.1: To identify strengths and weaknesses within the target PA networks and assisting
in strengthening the organizational framework as appropriate.
Reason for proposing objective be removed: This objective is already being addressed by
the EPAWM training modules that cover Grantmanship.
4.2
Financial audit by National Audit Department (JAN)
The PA Financing Project was audited by Jabatan Audit Negara this year. The audit commenced with a
briefing meeting on 22 April 2015 and the audit took place at the Department from 8 - 15 May 2015. An
Exit Conference was held at NRE on 4 June 2015. Overall, the auditors were satisfied with the Project’s
financial records and documentation. The PMU made note of recommendations from the Audit Team to
improve record keeping and to ensure that payments to vendors are processed in a timely manner.
4.3
Final METT Assessment, Financial Sustainability and Capacity Development Scores
Following the stakeholder workshops which led to the production of the preliminary METT, Financial
Sustainability and Capacity Scorecards for the three focal sites and PA Networks over March and April
2015, a series of follow up meetings were held with the aim to review and refine the scores and to address
any remaining information gaps. The final scores and notes were reported in the Project Implementation
Review which was submitted to UNDP in August 2015. Details of the follow up consultation sessions and
the summaries for each of the focal sites are included here.
Table 4.3: Follow up meetings to refine preliminary METT, Financial Sustainability and Capacity
Development scorecards
Dates
28 May 2015
8 June 2015
July 2015
Activity
Assessment and scorecards verification meeting with PSPC
– some adjustments to the scores were made in light of
new information on state policies and operations. The
amended report was accepted by PSPC.
Assessment and scorecards verification meeting with
DWNP – addition of supplementary financial information to
help gain a better picture of the percentage of the
Department’s annual budget goes to protected area
management.
Assessment and scorecards review coordinated by JNPC.
- the assessment was improved upon through an internal
review and was approved by JNPC before being submitted
for finalization.
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Venue
Ipoh, Perak
DWNP HQ, Cheras
Hartamas
JNPC HQ,
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4.3.1
Royal Belum State Park/ PSPC Overview
A follow up meeting was organized in Ipoh on 28 May 2015 to verify and finalize the initial assessment. At
this meeting, the PSPC General Manager provided some additional detail and context on how decisionmaking and budgeting for PSPC are operationalized in conjunction with the Perak state government. This
helped improve understanding of the management framework; as such, several sections of the Financial
Scorecard that refer to management options or categories not provided for under the Park enactment
were deemed “not applicable”. Adjusting the total possible score contributed to an upwards adjustment
of the total Financial Sustainability Score.
In addition, input provided from the State EXCO for Tourism, who attended the Ipoh meeting on 28th May
2015 provided information on Perak’s development plans as outlined in the state’s Integrated Master
Plan. This includes a clear emphasis on improving the state’s capacity to manage biodiversity rich natural
areas and establishing a strong and sustainable ecotourism sector.
Table 4.3.1: Final METT Assessment, Financial Sustainability and Capacity Development scores for Royal
Belum State Park and Perak State Park Corporation (PSPC)
2010
2012
2014
1
Royal Belum State Park
Perak State Park Corporation
Financial Sustainability Scorecards for RBSP
40%
29.2%
53.1%
2
Capacity development scorecard for RBSP
45%
49%
55.2%
3
METT scores for RBSP
(51.5%)
53
(54%)
56
(66.7%)
70
Source: METT Assessment verification meeting, Ipoh, 28 May 2015
Royal Belum SP managed to improve its METT Assessment score to 70 (66.7 percent) compared to 51.5
percent for the 2010 baseline. On the Financial Scorecard, PSPC obtained a total score of 94 out of a
possible score of 177, or 53.1 percent. This has exceeded the project target of 50 percent. For the Capacity
Scorecard, PSPC received a total score of 55.2 percent (53/96), which achieves the project target of 55
percent.
PSPC Financial scorecard breakdown
Legal, Regulatory & Institutional Framework
Business Planning & Tools for Cost Effective Management
Tools for Revenue Generation and Mobilization
36/72
28/58
30/47
50%
48.3%
63.8%
Overall, the assessment found that while PSPC continues to grapple with staff and resource constraints
that hamper its ability to be effective in all aspects of management, its organizational, management and
reporting fundamentals are strong. In addition, advances in prioritizing conservation areas by the state
government, and current initiatives to strengthen enforcement and increase its staff complement are
expected to put the PA agency on firmer footing in the coming year.
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4.3.2
Endau Rompin National Park/ JNPC Overview
Table 4.3.2a: Preliminary METT Assessment, Financial Sustainability and Capacity Development scores for
Endau Rompin National Park and Johor National Parks Corporation (JNPC)
1
Endau Rompin National Park
Johor National Parks Corporation
Financial Sustainability Scorecards for JNPC
2
Capacity development scorecard for JNPC
3
METT scores for Endau Rompin NP
2010
2012
2014
44.4%
(100)
61%
(59/96)
56.8%
58/102
40.6%
(89)
58.3%
(56/96)
53.9%
55/102
44.7%
(88/203)
63.5%
(61/96)
59.8%
61/102
For the Financial Scorecard, JNPC received a score of 88 out of a possible 203, or 44.7 percent,
strengthening further from the 2012 score of 40.6 percent and moving closer toward the project target
of 55 percent. Although, JNPC has made some steps towards diversifying its sources of revenue, options
for expanding revenue sources have not yet been fully explored. In general, the agency has a good
financial administrative structure in place, however progress has been slow with strengthening financial
sustainability and providing incentives for effective PA management.
Table 4.3.2b: JNPC Financial scorecard breakdown 44.7%
Legal, Regulatory & Institutional Framework
Business Planning & Tools for Cost Effective Management
Tools for Revenue Generation and Mobilization
36/72
28/58
30/47
30.3%
53.4 %
53.6%
In terms of Capacity Development, JNPC’s scores have strengthened compared to the 2012 assessment.
It received a score of 61/96 or 63.5 percent, making some progress toward the project target of 70
percent. Improvements have been made to its legal instruments through the review of the JNPC
Enactment which is expected to strengthen provisions for enforcement, prosecution and enforcing
penalties. In 2014 a total of 39 permanent posts were approved for JNPC which allows for 39 contract and
daily paid staff to be upgraded to permanent staff by 2015. This is regarded as a significant development
for ensuring job security and strengthening prospects for professional development among park staff.
4.3.3 Taman Negara National Park/ DWNP Overview
Taman Negara NP achieved a METT Assessment score of 74.5, a slight improvement from the 2010
baseline. Taman Negara NP scored well in terms of having in place good systems for operational
management. However, the Park scored more poorly in terms of being sufficiently resourced to fully
realize effective management. Among some of the challenges identified are the need to upgrade or
replace essential tools such as vehicles, boats, and other equipment. Park staff also highlighted the need
to acquire new technology to improve monitoring and enforcement.
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Taman Negara NP’s extensive boundary which is increasingly being exposed due to rapid land use and
extension of the road network in adjacent areas are making the park much more accessible to poachers.
With these threats, there is a need to substantially increase patrolling and enforcement activities.
Table 4.3.3a: Preliminary METT Assessment, Financial Sustainability and Capacity Development scores for
Taman Negara National Park and the Dept. of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP)
Taman Negara National Park
2010
2012
2014
Department of Wildlife and National Parks
(DWNP)
1 Financial Sustainability Scorecards for DWNP
49.8%
40.6%
55.8%
2
Capacity development scorecard for DWNP
3
METT scores for Taman Negara NP
61%
(59)
72.5%
74/102
58.3%
(56)
56.9%
58/102
63.5%
(61)
74.5%
76/102
The financial sustainability score was little changed from the 2012 score which is thought to be more
reflective of the actual situation than the 2010 baseline. DWNP remains reliant primarily on government
budget allocations. The final financial scorecard was adjusted to incorporate the formula for calculating
the contribution to PAs from the Department’s total budget developed by Dr. Sivananthan. When applying
this method to the financial report for 2014, it was more apparent that there has been a notable increase
in funding for PAs (RM24.6 million) compared to the previous year’s spending of RM19.04 million.
In the assessment period little progress has been made in the area of funding diversification and in
increasing the amounts captured from visitor and entrance fees. With limited funds available, the normal
practice is to allocate budgets to the most pressing needs. Currently, the system does not have a
mechanism to award funding based on performance. It was noted however, that DWNP was successful in
obtaining Federal government allocations to the value of RM 16 million mainly for upgrading its facilities
for wildlife rehabilitation, enforcement, conducting wildlife inventory research and habitat enrichment,
and facilitating the reintroduction or relocation of wildlife.
Table 4.3.3b: DWNP Financial scorecard breakdown 55.8%
Legal, Regulatory & Institutional Framework
Business Planning & Tools for Cost Effective Management
Tools for Revenue Generation and Mobilization
41/91
35/55
35/53
45.1%
60.3 %
66.0%
The capacity scores show a slight improvement from the 2010 and 2012 scores (63.5%). This is reflective
of the support for training and capacity building from the PA Financing Project and the current efforts to
transform IBD into a national training centre. From the assessment it was clear that the Department
continues to be very strong in its traditional areas, particularly wildlife management. The assessment
highlighted the need build capacity in other areas which include the skills to strengthen co-management
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with other stakeholders including the Forestry Department, to enhance PA and buffer zone management.
Stakeholders also proposed to have a joint PA management Committee at the State and Inter-State level.
In addition, it was noted that there is a need to constantly update skills and become familiar with
technological innovations to enhance PA management. Presently, only 10 out of the 35 PAs under the
jurisdiction of DWNP are furnished with management plans; many of these are old and in need of updating
to meet contemporary needs.
4.4
Budget for 2015
Allocation for 2015: US$ 1.186 million
Revised as of August 2015 to US$ 1.7865 million
Estimated expenditure: By 31st October – 82.4 percent
4.5
Planned Activities for 2016
4.5.1
Establishing a National PA Framework
The study is expected to begin in January 2016 with the appointment of an individual consultant.
Further consultations planned to get views and consent from PA Networks and State Agencies in
developing uniform PA management guidelines.
The study will explore both an enabling environment (legal framework) and a common framework for
the whole country. The PA Master List to be used as reference material to provide basis for the
Framework. The first draft is expected to be ready by the middle of 2016.
4.5.2
The Economics of Ecosystem and Biodiversity (TEEB)
The advertisement for the study is expected to be made in January 2016 and the study is expected to
commence in the 1st quarter of 2016. A preliminary assessment report is expected by the 3rd quarter of
2016 for at least for one site,
4.5.3
Develop “Strategic Plan” and “Resource Mobilization Plan” for NCTF
Further consultations with NRE will be made to determine on the possibility of developing these plans to
support the management of the NCTF.
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4.5.4
Review of DWNP, JNPC and PSPC “Enactments”
To follow-up on the findings of the “Gap Analysis” by the Management and Business Plan consultants,
further consultations will be held with the respective PA Networks to explore support for strengthening
the legal framework for the respective PA Networks. A legal expert may be appointed to assist the PA
Networks to undertake the review.
4.5.5
Sustainable Financing Strategies for PA Networks
Study to explore revenue diversification options for PA Networks and at site level.
4.5.6
Regional Forum on “Sustainable Financing for PAs”
Planned to be organized in the 1st half of 2016, may involve representation from countries in South East
Asian region.
4.5.7
Second PA Managers’ Conference
Planned in the 3rd quarter of 2016.
4.5.8
Management and Business Plans for the three focal sites (Taman Negara, Royal Belum and
Endau Rompin)
The first draft of Management and Business Plans is expected to be delivered by the end of 2015. The
draft will be presented to the key stakeholders at the States and DWNP. The consultancy will be
completed by the end of 2016.
4.5.9
Management and Business Plans for Bako National Park, Sarawak
Study to begin in 1st half of 2016.
4.5.10 Capacity development support
Continue to provide financial support for training and capacity development activities at Federal, State
and PA Network level.
4.5.11 Communications support
Additional communications support will be provided to strengthen awareness and appreciation of PAs at
national and state level.
27