SIMUNJAN: More than 100 participants involving youth, students, and community groups came together at the Sabal Forest Reserve to plant over 500 indigenous tree saplings in a joint conservation effort on Sunday.

Organised by the Forest Department Sarawak in collaboration with Leo Club UCSI University, the programme also saw active participation from Leo Club Swinburne, UCSI University Sarawak Campus, and members of the Lions Club.

A total of 502 saplings, including high-value species such as belian, meranti, and kapur, were planted as part of the initiative aimed at promoting long-term forest sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Assistant Director of the Forest Department Sarawak, Zarina Shebli, praised the initiative, noting that it highlights the importance of engaging young people in conservation.

“The active involvement of youth and local stakeholders reflects a strong shared commitment to protecting Sarawak’s forest heritage for future generations,” she said in a press statement.

The department added that it will continue to foster collaborative partnerships to conserve the state’s forest resources while ensuring environmental sustainability as part of Sarawak’s long-term green agenda.

Also present were Assistant Professor at UCSI University, Dr. Ida Ingko, Region 1 Chairperson of Lions Club of Kuching, Jeff Lee, and President of Lions Club of Kuching Centennial, Lynette Lee. -UKASnews