A conservation initiative in Selangor focusing on empowering Orang Asli communities as forest stewards has been formally recognised.
The initiative, called Penjaga Gunung, was highlighted as one of the notable projects under the Forest Conservation Certificate (FCC) framework, demonstrating how conservation financing can translate into measurable environmental and community impact on the ground.
Raja Muda Selangor Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah graced the FCC ceremony in Shah Alam.
Also present was Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup.
Penjaga Gunung said in a media statement: “During the ceremony, a conservation agreement was also signed by key stakeholders supporting the implementation of Penjaga Gunung in Selangor.”
The initiative works with Orang Asli communities from Kampung Gerachi, Pertak and Ulu Batu within the Royal Selangor Heritage Forest, strengthening their role as forest stewards through structured pathways that connect traditional knowledge with formal recognition and sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative will see participants supported to become certified mountain and nature guides, and development of forest-based livelihoods aligned with conservation, including guiding, biodiversity monitoring and community-led activities.
“This approach ensures that conservation is integrated into everyday life, creating a pathway where environmental protection and economic sustainability move together,” the statement said.
The ceremony saw Penjaga Gunung project lead Mohammad Afiq Tajul Ariffin receiving the certificate from the Malaysia Forest Fund (MFF).
FCC is aimed at funding conservation and sustainable forest initiatives, integrating environmental stewardship and sustainable finance.
