Empowering Indigenous Communities through Integrated Watershed Management and Micro-Hydropower: A Pathway to Nature-Based Solution and Carbon Sequestration in Ulu Papar

¹ Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Asia Office
² TONIBUNG, Sabah
³ Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

^* Corresponding author: alwinlong@atechnologies.com.my

Abstract

Ulu Papar community’s empowerment study integrated micro-grid electrification using micro-hydropower with a multi-helix stakeholders’ engagement model focused on watershed management. This initiative aimed at sustainability in managing forest and water resources, safeguarding biodiversity and preventing over-exploitation of resources. This study empowered indigenous communities to promote conservation practices that benefited traditional livelihoods and the environment. It involved government actors and community leaders enforcing land-use regulations and creating shared responsibility for preserving watersheds. Clean and reliable energy provided by micro-hydropower supports forest conservation efforts while reducing deforestation. Therefore, this study used data-driven monitoring to track forest health, water quality, and biodiversity for ecosystem resilience. Additionally, sustainable agriculture was promoted by providing training to communities for growing environmentally compatible crops and exploring value-added processing like fruit drying to enhance incomes. The study built community ownership by involving locals in system maintenance and operation. This empowerment aligned with the Green Resilient and Recovery (GRR) fund to ensure inclusive participation. Moroever, utilizing the carbon sequestration initiatives, future income from carbon credits would further incentivize watershed management. This nature-based solution would enhance environmental preservation and economic resilience, supporting sustainable development in Ulu Papar.