BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei Darussalam reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vital wetland ecosystems as the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), through the Forestry Department, convened the Workshop on Wetland Management and Conservation under the Ramsar Convention from Oct 28 to 30 in the capital.
Present as the guest of honour at the opening ceremony was Deputy Permanent Secretary II at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism Dayang Noralinda Ibrahim, who welcomed more than 40 participants representing government agencies, higher-learning institutions, international organisations and regional partners dedicated to wetland conservation.
In her remarks, Dayang Noralinda expressed Brunei Darussalam’s honour in hosting a gathering that unites experts and advocates with shared responsibility toward conserving wetlands as essential ecosystems.
She highlighted that wetlands play a critical role in sustaining biodiversity, regulating the climate, protecting communities against natural disasters, and supporting the livelihoods of millions around the world.
“Wetlands are living systems that connect people, nature and prosperity. Their protection is fundamental to achieving both environmental integrity and human resilience,” she said, urging participants to actively collaborate and share best practices throughout the workshop.
Brunei’s remarkable natural heritage was also underscored, with forests covering approximately 72 per cent of the nation’s land area – about 21 per cent of which are wetlands, reflecting the Sultanate’s strong conservation legacy.
Among its prized ecosystems is the century-old mangrove forest at Pulau Selirong Forest Recreation Park, cited as a strong candidate for the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance.
The three-day workshop includes technical discussions, knowledge-sharing sessions and group exercises on scientific and policy approaches to wetland conservation.
According to organisers, the initiative aims to enhance integrated wetland management strategies, raise awareness on ecological and economic values, and reinforce regional cooperation in line with international best practices.
The programme was further enriched by a field visit to one of Brunei’s pristine mangrove forests, offering delegates firsthand insights into ecosystem protection efforts and the natural beauty being preserved.
The experience served as a powerful reminder of the importance of sustained collaboration to safeguard wetland environments for future generations.
Representatives from the Ramsar Regional Center – East Asia and the Secretariat of the Ramsar Convention also delivered welcoming remarks, commending Brunei Darussalam for its continued cooperation and leadership in strengthening wetland management across the region.
The workshop stands as a timely platform to foster deeper partnerships, as the Sultanate advances its environmental stewardship in support of the broader Ramsar Convention mission – ensuring wetlands remain protected and valued for their indispensable contribution to people and the planet. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
