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THE nation has renewed efforts to strengthen forest conservation and environmental sustainability policies as approximately 1,000 trees of various species were planted in the Sook Lake Forest Reserve in Sabah during the National International Day of Forests 2026 celebration.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Arthur Joseph Kurup said the annual programme was aimed at deepening public awareness about the critical importance of forests while encouraging wider participation in conservation and preservation efforts.
According to him, the initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to protecting natural resources, safeguarding ecosystem balance and ensuring environmental sustainability for future generations.
“Forests not only serve as a natural treasure that must be protected, but they are also an important economic resource for rural communities.
“I hope the younger generation will continue to appreciate and preserve the forest treasures that we possess today for the sustainability of the future,” he said in a statement yesterday.
The event, held at the Sook Lake Forest Reserve, formed part of Malaysia’s wider environmental agenda amid increasing regional concern over deforestation, biodiversity loss and climate resilience.
At the same time, Arthur urged all state governments to expedite the adoption of the amended National Forestry Act 2022 as state forestry enactments in order to strengthen national forest protection and conservation mechanisms.
He explained that the federal amendments introduced several important safeguards, including mandatory public hearing mechanisms, replacement requirements for degazetted forest land and simultaneous gazettement procedures for replacement forest reserves.
“Until now, Perlis, the Federal Territories, Kelantan and Negeri Sembilan have adopted all the proposed amendments, while Selangor and Perak have approved the adoption of the Act in their State Legislative Assemblies and are currently in the gazettement process.
“Other states are also taking steps towards implementing the same measures,” he said.
Sabah chief conservator of forests Zulkifli Suara said the programme was not solely intended to rehabilitate forest areas, but also to cultivate collective responsibility and stronger public participation in environmental protection efforts.
He stressed that younger Malaysians in particular should seize the opportunity to become active agents of environmental change.
“Let this tree-planting activity become a continuous practice and a way of life for a prosperous and sustainable future.
“May every sapling we plant today grow well and become a long-term investment for the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of Sabah and the nation,” he said.
The event highlights growing national emphasis on sustainability and ecosystem protection as Malaysia faces mounting pressure to balance economic development with conservation commitments under international climate and biodiversity frameworks. - May 23, 2026
