KOTA KINABALU: The use of science, technology and inclusive partnership with indigenous people is now key to tackling the growing complexities facing tropical forests amid climate change issues, says Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister (NRES) Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup.
He said it is important that Malaysia build on its achievements in conserving and protecting its forests by giving more focus in science, technology and inclusive partnerships to address the challenges climate change, deforestation and sustainability demands.
Speaking at the International Conference on Tropical Forestry 2026 (TF2026) here Tuesday (Aug 18), Arthur said that there is no room to become complacent amid new global challenges.
In outlining Malaysia achievements, he said 17.99 million hectares or 54.40% of the country remains under forest cover that exceeds the 1992 Rio pledge of 50% cover.
“Sabah with 62.53% (4.63 million hectares and Sarawak with 61.52% (7.64 mil hectares) 5.9 million hectares certified under Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme and Programme for Endorsement of Certification Scheme.
He said that through restoration and landscape initiatives, the Central Forest Spine in Peninsular Malaysia and Heart of Borneo in Sabah and Sarawak allowed for habitat connectivity and biodiversity protection.
He said Malaysia also planted 137 million trees under the 100 Million Tree-Planting Campaign 2021-2025.
“These achievements must not make us complacent. Tropical forestry is becoming more complex. Climate change, deforestation, forest degradation, biodiversity loss, changing land-use pressures and new expectations relating to carbon markets, traceability and sustainability are reshaping the sector.
“This is why science and research matter more than ever,” he said at the conference organised by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).
Arthur observed that the scope of TF2026 reflected the realities spanning forest ecology, biodiversity, policy, technology, social forestry, agroforestry and forest products.
He called on researchers and universities to ensure research addresses real-world challenges.
“I encourage researchers and universities to ensure that excellent research also addresses real world challenges by strengthening policy and management, improving monitoring and restoration, protecting species and supporting sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
He said technologies such as remote sensing, GIS, LiDAR and artificial intelligence (AI) can complement field expertise and strengthen monitoring, enforcement and decision-making.
He said sustainable forestry must also be inclusive.
“We must also never lose sight of people’s importance. Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs) are important custodians of forest landscapes. Sustainable forestry must be inclusive, respect local knowledge and deliver tangible benefits to communities.
He said Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) has an important role, with Sabah serving as a “living laboratory” for tropical forestry and biodiversity.
“I hope TF2026 will deepen collaboration between UMS, government agencies, forestry departments, industry, civil society and international research institutions.
”To young researchers, Ask difficult questions, build networks across disciplines and borders, and ensure that your knowledge contributes to solutions that are scientifically sound, inclusive and relevant to society,” he added.
