The initiative will help conserve tiger habitats, prevent human-wildlife conflict and strengthen ecosystem resilience, says Onn Hafiz. — Filepic
Johor government is stepping up efforts to protect the Malayan tiger and preserve the state’s natural heritage through a series of new environmental and biodiversity initiatives under its 2026 budget.
Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said RM225,000 has been allocated for the management of tiger habitats within Endau-Rompin National Park, one of the country’s last remaining habitats for the critically endangered species.
“This initiative will help conserve wildlife habitats, prevent human-wildlife conflicts and strengthen ecosystem resilience,” he said when tabling Johor Budget 2026 during the state assembly sitting at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar.
He said the conservation focus reflected Johor’s long-term vision of balancing development with sustainable environmental management.
“Johor’s environmental efforts are not only about protecting nature but also ensuring that development and sustainability go hand in hand.”
To strengthen forest protection, Johor has set aside RM1.39mil for forest boundary marking and maintenance works, and RM450,000 for forest restoration and rehabilitation projects, particularly in areas affected by illegal logging and land degradation.
Onn Hafiz said the state would also invest RM560,000 to develop a comprehensive database for national park boundary data, improving land and forest administration efficiency.
The state was also taking significant steps to promote green innovation and biodiversity protection, he said.
Among the main initiatives is the Raja Zarith Sofiah Learning Centre, a joint project between Johor Sustainability Centre (JSC) and Saitama City Hall in Japan.
“The centre will serve as a hub for education and research grounded in sustainability and green innovation.
“Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, will officiate the launch on Nov 24,” he announced.
To strengthen environmental governance, Onn Hafiz said the government would hold the Johor Green Deal Summit, supported by an allocation of RM1mil, to promote collaboration among industries, local councils and communities in driving green initiatives.
A total of RM7mil has also been allocated for Johor River Transformation Programme aimed at tackling river pollution and ensuring sustainability of the state’s key waterways.
“Sungai Johor is a vital source of water for the state, and its health directly impacts our communities and industries,” Onn Hafiz highlighted.
The Mentri Besar said an allocation of RM700,000 would go to the Johor Bersih programme focusing on public cleanliness and waste management campaigns across the state.
