KOTA KINABALU: The International Borneo Sevens 2025 officially kicked off on Wednesday (Feb 19) with a tree-planting ceremony at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) in Sandakan.
A total of 20 saplings, including Tarap Hutan, fig-trees, and Bambangan, were planted during the ceremony.
“To commemorate this 20th anniversary, ERC has chosen to plant trees in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Though a simple act, this initiative carries great significance and aligns with Malaysia’s national campaign towards a greener future,” said Deputy Conservator of Forests (R&D) chief Dr Arthur Chung.
ERC President Velayuthan Tan expressed appreciation to sponsors supporting both the tree planting programme and the tournament.
The tree planting organising chairman, Jonathan Tan, said: “This programme is about giving back to the community and addressing carbon offset. Community engagement is our priority, and this marks the first time many of our corporate sponsors have visited a rainforest. We hope it won’t be the last.”
Meanwhile, Rainforest Discovery Centre Manager Bernadette Joeman said: “It’s heartening to see corporate sponsors actively participating in conservation. These trees will provide food and shelter for wildlife, reinforcing the rainforest ecosystem. Fig trees, in particular, serve as a ‘supermarket of the rainforest,’ benefiting various species.”
Sandakan Municipal Council President Walter Kenson participated in the ceremony, along with representatives from major tournament sponsors, including KLK Bhd, TSH Resources Bhd, Loongsyn Sdn. Bhd., Compumed Services Sdn Bhd, IJM Land Bhd, Crack Inc, Lifewater Industries Sdn Bhd, Somersby, Karrin Associates Pte Ltd and Syt Pertanian Khoon Siah Sdn Bhd.
