Key messages

• In Sabah, social forestry (SF) is part of the state’s sustainable forest management (SFM) strategy to achieve environmental, economic and social objectives.
• SF and SFM can be compatible because both recognize the importance of community participation in achieving sustainable use of forest resources.
• However, there is a gap in translating the SF concept to activities within the SFM approach and a lack of continuity.
• To strengthen the role of local communities in SFM through SF, there is a need for a platform enabling open discussion among relevant stakeholders, increasing awareness about the benefits of SF and securing adequate funding to conduct SF activities.
• This brief examines social forestry within four local communities of Tongod District.