Faizal (centre, left) and Gan holding the signed agreement on their joint mangrove conservation project in Kuala Muda.
Global Environment Centre (GEC) has inked a deal with a firm for a five-year mangrove conservation and rehabilitation project in Kuala Muda district, Kedah.
The project seeks to implement conservation and restoration efforts, actively engaging coastal communities and stakeholders in mangrove protection and management.
Leader Energy Holding Bhd employees and volunteers will also gain experience in conserving and rehabilitating the mangrove ecosystem.
The programme will foster collaboration with residents of Kuala Muda district, Sahabat Hutan Bakau Kampung Taman Nilam, local government authorities, schools and universities to achieve its goals.
GEC director Faizal Parish said the project’s objective was to rehabilitate and sustainably manage mangroves.
“Baseline assessments have been initiated to guide the selection of suitable project areas and identify communities to be involved.
“The project will focus on protection of remaining mangroves as well as tree planting and maintenance in degraded portions to contribute to sustainable development in the area.
“The project will employ an ecosystem-based approach, ensuring the selection of appropriate tree species for rehabilitation.”
He said the community empowerment approach would build capacity and ownership, supporting local livelihoods.
Leader Energy group chief executive officer Gan Boon Hean said the initiative, supported with a grant of RM1.9mil as well as volunteer input, aimed to establish and empower a local community group as guardians of the mangroves.
The initiative aims to rehabilitate 5ha to 10ha of degraded mangrove areas and plant 15,000 to 18,000 mangrove trees.
The project will deliver dual benefits, empowering the local community for effective mangrove resource management while fostering a resilient ecosystem.
Mangroves play a role in mitigating climate change by sequestering large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
The trees absorb carbon and store it in their biomass and in the surrounding sediment, helping to combat the greenhouse effect.
Mangroves also act as a natural buffer against coastal erosion and storm surges.
Their intricate root systems stabilise shorelines, reducing the impact of waves and protecting coastal communities from the devastating effects of bad weather.
Mangroves are essential for the fisheries industry as they provide a rich feeding ground and a safe haven for fish and crustaceans.
