The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) will work with the state government to create job opportunities while protecting the natural resources of the state.
 
Niloy Banerjee, UNDP Resident Representative, said UNDP is looking forward to work with the Sabah government.
 
"It's an exciting time for us in UNDP to work with the Government of Sabah and its citizens," he told reporters after making a courtesy call on Monday, at the office of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal at the State Administrative Center (PKNS).
 
Niloy claimed that UNDP Malaysia plans to implement three major projects in Sabah over the next four years and added that three major areas will focus on-biodiversity and wildlife conservation.
 
He added that the initiatives will entail raising funds of approximately USD 15 million to USD 16 million (about RM62.12 million to RM66.12 million) over the next four years primarily for the implementation of wildlife conservation, biodiversity protection and also community programs such as youth entrepreneurship.
 
Niloy said it could be used to create sustainable or environmental job opportunities for locals as the state is blessed with natural resources. 
 
"We have precious ecosystems and aquatic resources, and to ensure that they do not kill natural resources, we must be cautious about employment and growth.