NABAWAN: The traditional practice of tagal does more than protect fish and other aquatic species in rivers. It is also a cultural and customary heritage that reflects the longstanding awareness of local communities of the importance of conserving rivers and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.

Nabawan State Assemblyman Datuk Abdul Ghani bin Mohamed Yassin said rivers are not merely sources of food and fish, but also play an important role in fostering social relationships and shaping the identity of local communities.

He said the tagal practice demonstrated that earlier generations already understood the importance of managing and conserving natural resources responsibly.

Abdul Ghani cut the ribbon to symbolise the official opening of the Traditional Tagal Opening Ceremony of Kampung Takilis at Lubuk Lumiri, Sungai Saliuh, on Tuesday.

Abdul Ghani, who is also Chairman of the Sabah State Land Development Board (LKTNS), made these remarks when officiating at the ceremony.

He emphasised that river conservation must be carried out continuously to ensure fish populations can reproduce and thrive, so that their resources can be enjoyed not only by today's residents but also by generations to come.

“Do not think only about what we can gain today; we must also consider the needs of our children and grandchildren in the future,” he said.

In this regard, he urged the community to avoid activities that could damage river ecosystems, including pollution, inappropriate fishing methods and the excessive harvesting of natural resources.

He said responsibility for river conservation should not rest solely with the government. Instead, it requires the cooperation and commitment of all parties, particularly communities living near rivers.

He added that village heads, Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK), young people and all residents must play their respective roles in ensuring compliance with tagal regulations and keeping river areas well protected.

According to him, community discipline and cooperation are key to ensuring that fish stocks can be sustained over the long term.

Meanwhile, he noted that well-preserved river areas have the potential to be developed into ecotourism attractions based on natural landscapes and local culture.

He said the tagal practice could be developed into a unique cultural experience while creating economic opportunities for residents through traditional food offerings, handicraft production, local services and community-based activities.

However, he stressed that any development initiatives must be carefully managed to ensure that environmental interests are not sacrificed in the pursuit of economic profits.

He also encouraged greater youth participation in carrying forward the tagal heritage so that this practice, passed down through generations, would not become merely a memory or a story of the past.

He said young people could contribute by documenting traditional customs, promoting river destinations, monitoring environmental cleanliness and helping to manage tagal activities in an orderly manner.

He added that the survival of any cultural heritage depended on the willingness of younger generations to learn about it, appreciate its value and take responsibility for preserving it.

Beyond environmental conservation, he said programmes of this kind also strengthened the spirit of gotong-royong (mutual cooperation), unity and solidarity among village communities.

He noted that a united community would find it easier to work together to protect the environment, preserve traditional customs and develop the local economy.

He expressed hope that the traditional tagal practice would continue to be upheld as a symbol of the heritage and identity of Kampung Takilis, while serving as an example of how traditional customs can coexist with modern development.

“Through the cooperation of all parties, the tagal practice is expected to remain a platform for safeguarding our natural heritage, strengthening community ties and passing on sustainable river resources to future generations,” he added.（Translated from 15.10.2026 kinabalumedia）