1980s – 1990s

Discovery and Studies

Environmentalist “discovered” the mangrove forest at the Likas Swamp was still in a good condition and home for many bird species. Proposals were developed to lobby for its protection.

1996

Birds Sanctuary

The area was designated as the Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary (KKCBS) in September 1996. Likas Wetlands Sanctuary Management Committee (LWSMC), an innovative and unique public-private-NGO-community partnership, was established under the directive of the Chief Minister of Sabah to manage the KKCBS.

1999

Cultural Heritage Site (Conservation)

The area was gazetted as a Cultural Heritage Site (Conservation) in 1999, giving it a second layer of protection. The Development and Management Plan was prepared and implemented, and environmental education programmes was designated and implemented; these were supported by funding from Sabah State Government, DANCED, the Royal Netherlands Embassy. WWF Netherlands and others.

2000

Opening Its Doors

The KKCBS was opened to the public March 1st, 2000. LWSMC started to explore the options of governing structure for more effective management and operation.

2005

SWCS

The formation of Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society (SWCS) was approved by the Registrar of Societies in August 22nd, 2005.

2006

LWSMC was officially dissolved on January 20th, 2006 to make a way for SWCS to manage KKCBS (now known as Kota Kinabalu Wetland Ramsar Site), and to operate independently as a self-sustainable centre in the future. The 1st SWCS Annual General Meeting was held on March 23rd, 2006.