A notable story of commitment and change has unfolded in the village of Kampung Ratau in Kiulu, Sabah. Villager Petrus Mailu has become a key figure in RYTHM Foundation’s Community Adoption Programme (CAP) in the East Malaysian state.
The 32-year-old behind a hiking and trekking enterprise stands as a shining example of progress and ambition, taking the lead in advancing the area’s eco-tourism attractions.
Young individuals like Petrus are part of a youth component of CAP Sabah called the Youth Connect Circle (YCC), which empowers them with the skills and knowledge to kickstart their enterprises.
Our CAP initiative with the NGO Good Shepherd Services also focuses on academic support for primary schoolchildren and micro-enterprise training for women. The programme is also underway in two nearby villages, Kampung Lokub and Kampung Talantang.
Also read: Community Adoption Programme Beneficiaries in Sabah Show Remarkable Improvement and Growth
Petrus started his YCC journey after becoming intrigued by efforts to revitalise sustainable tourism in the region. What initially sparked as a simple interest has become a wholehearted commitment: he is deputy chairman of his village’s tourism efforts.
“At first, I hesitated to take on a prominent role to promote our tourism,” Petrus says. “However, as I delved deeper into my venture, my passion for preserving the natural beauty of Kampung Ratau grew stronger.
“Eco-tourism is not just about showcasing our environment but also about nurturing it for generations to come. That is when I decided it should be more than just a business venture,” Petrus adds.
His numerous responsibilities include helping other youths identify viable eco-tourism enterprises, prepare business proposals, and structure their ventures.
The initial hurdles he faced – from managing time constraints to juggling numerous commitments – appeared formidable. However, with the steadfast support of his close-knit community, Petrus has discovered the motivation to overcome these challenges.
“Working together, we have found the strength to conquer all challenges, ensuring our path to environment-friendly tourism thrives.”
Thanks to the unwavering support provided by CAP Sabah, Petrus stands resolute in his belief that Kiulu’s eco-tourism endeavours will not only thrive but also expand, ensuring sustainable prospects for the local community.
These efforts simultaneously guard the pristine natural beauty that defines the region, safeguarding its splendour for future generations. By nurturing the delicate balance between progress and preservation, Petrus and his dedicated team are laying the groundwork for a brighter, more sustainable future for Kiulu and its precious environment.