With certified tree climbers, SKG Green can now install camera traps higher up in trees, a task previously handled by external experts.
KOTA KINABALU: SKG Green Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of the Sabah-owned Sawit Kinabalu Group, has boosted its conservation and operational capabilities by training and certifying its own team of tree climbers.
The company now has four certified tree climbers, including one ranger who has achieved advanced Level 2 certification, a first for SKG Green, which previously relied on external specialists for tree-based work.
SKG Green Senior Manager of Conservation and Biodiversity Charis Saliun said the initiative would improve operational efficiency while significantly reducing annual costs.
“Previously, we had to hire external climbers for all activities requiring tree access, costing between RM10,000 and RM20,000 annually, and our maintenance schedules were often delayed due to availability,” he said.
He noted that only certified climbers are permitted to carry out critical tasks such as maintaining three overhead canopy bridges for wildlife crossings, servicing eight aerial habitat nodes, installing and removing camera traps, collecting seeds, and pruning trees across the 2,632-hectare Sungai Pin Conservation Area.
“With our own trained climbers, we can execute tasks on schedule, install more camera traps higher up rather than mostly on the ground, and improve the quality of our wildlife monitoring,” added Charis.
Currently, one ranger holds Level 2 certification, while the remaining three are certified at Level 1, with plans already underway to upgrade their skills.
“In Sabah, certified tree climbers are still rare, so this capability is important for us. We will continue training our rangers and advancing their certifications,” he said.
Beyond operational needs, SKG Green is exploring ecotourism opportunities, including guided tree-climbing experiences for visitors.
“We are evaluating suitable trees near our facilities, including a platform approximately 20 metres high near the Canopy View Café. With certified climbers, we can ensure both safety and compliance,” said Charis.
The training was conducted by veteran tree climbing instructor Jamiluddin Jami, who brings 23 years of experience.
Charis also highlighted the potential to offer professional tree-climbing services to other organisations in the future.
“This skill set could create a new business segment for us, particularly as competent tree climbers remain scarce in Sabah,” he said.
