SIBU: Sarawak’s success in planting 35 million trees can inspire other states to boost national biodiversity conservation efforts through Malaysia’s Reforestation Programme.

Minister of Natural Resources and Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said that as of June 11, 2024, a total of 89.09 million trees have been planted across the country since the launch of the 100 Million Trees Planting Campaign in 2021.

As of now, Sarawak has planted over 35 million trees, totaling 35.006 million based on the latest records.

“This accomplishment should serve as an example for other states as motivation to work together in achieving this reforestation effort,” he saied during his address at the launch of the International Day of Forests 2024 Celebration at the Sibu Division, Surau Darul Ukhuwah, Kemuyang on Saturday.

According to Nik Nazmi, Malaysia’s current forest area still exceeds standards, totaling 18 million hectares or 54.58 percent. Of this total, Sarawak is the largest contributor, with 7.6 million hectares or 42.5 percent of the country’s total forest area.

He emphasised that despite the importance of tree replanting, there are numerous challenges that need to be addressed by the department, such as tree survival and more.

Taking this into account, he mentioned that the government allocates millions of ringgit annually for Ecological Fiscal Transfer (EFT) incentives aimed at conservation.

He stated that it began with RM60 million in 2019, and since Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim assumed office as Prime Minister, he has raised the fund to RM150 million, and this year it has been increased further to RM200 million.

According to him, Sarawak, known for its extensive forest cover, received the largest EFT disbursement of RM55.4 million from 2019 to 2024.

“Through this allocation, we hope to use it for conservation work, and we will also review regulations to ensure the success of these efforts.” -UKASnews