Saarani says Perak tops forest reserve charts and is nearing reforestation target.
A total of 9.55 million trees have been planted across Perak as of November last year, nearing the state’s target of planting 10 million trees by 2025.
In addressing climate change, Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the state government had implemented the Malaysia Greening Agenda through the 100 Million Tree Planting campaign since January 2021.
He was responding to a question from Chaw Kam Foon (PH-Menglembu), during the state assembly sitting at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan in Ipoh.
Chaw had asked about the state government’s long-term vision and commitment to sustainable development that balances economy, environment and public health.
Saarani said the state had 988,722.22ha of permanent forest reserve that was equivalent to 47.37% of Perak’s total area, making it the state with the largest permanent forest reserve in Peninsular Malaysia.
Regarding Perak’s Community Feeding Programme (PCF), he said it would continue this year with an allocation of RM500,000 through the state human resources, health, Indian community affairs, and national integration committee.
The programme, which targeted Orang Asli children and B40 families, had expanded to include urban residents.
“Since 2021, a total of 35 PCF were targeted under the Perak Strategic Plan 2021–2025, making it the only state to consistently allocate funds for this initiative,” he said.
Saarani also said the state government was taking mental health issues seriously, as this was expected to become a major public health challenge if not addressed early.
In 2024 alone, he said 345 mental health-related programmes and courses were implemented across the state.
“To date, 13 additional counselling psychologists have been placed at every district health office and major health institutions.
“Counselling services, therapy sessions, educational resources, and relaxation activities are also being offered,” he added.
A total of 81 clinics operated by the Health Ministry were providing early mental health screenings in all 12 districts in Perak, he added.
The state government, he said, had also launched a free influenza vaccination programme to protect high-risk groups, especially senior citizens.
A total of 1,946 senior citizens received the free vaccination at 78 selected health clinics since Feb 18.
“A total of 17,000 doses have been prepared and are being distributed in phases, based on local needs and the elderly population,” he said.
Saarani said achieving a sustainable balance between economic growth, environmental protection and public health remained one of the state’s major development challenges.
He added that this vision of balanced development would be realised through strong governance mechanisms under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Steering Committee and Working Committee.
“These committees will work in synergy to ensure all projects are implemented smoothly and align with current needs and challenges – for the well-being of the people of Perak.”
