KUCHING – The 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference (MFC) concluded on 15 July 2026 with a renewed pledge to strengthen collaboration and advance sustainable forest management across Malaysia.
The Closing Ceremony was officiated by YBhg. Datu Haji Abdullah Bin Julaihi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development (MUDeNR).
In his address, Datu Abdullah congratulated the Forest Department Sarawak and the organising committee for successfully hosting the conference.
He noted that the event brought together participants from forestry departments in Sarawak, Peninsular Malaysia, and Sabah, alongside representatives from government agencies, industry, academia, research institutions, non-governmental organisations, and international bodies.
He emphasised that such collaboration is vital in addressing the evolving challenges facing Malaysia’s forestry sector.
The Director of Forests Sarawak, YBhg. Datu Haji Hamden Bin Haji Mohammad, presented the resolutions adopted during the conference.
These resolutions reaffirmed the collective commitment of forestry authorities to strengthen cooperation and advance sustainable forest management practices.
Reflecting on the conference theme, “Forests as Catalyst for a Green Economy,” Datu Abdullah highlighted the critical role forests play in supporting climate action, sustainable development, and economic growth.
He stressed that Malaysia’s forests are not only ecological assets but also drivers of biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, and sustainable livelihoods.
The conference featured 79 papers, including one keynote paper, three main working papers, 25 oral presentations, 30 poster sessions, and 20 information papers.
This breadth of contributions demonstrated the depth of expertise and innovation within Malaysia’s forestry sector, covering topics such as forest conservation, sustainable timber production, biodiversity protection, and community engagement.
Delegates discussed the importance of balancing conservation with development, noting that effective forest management requires collaboration between government, academia, industry, and local communities.
The resolutions adopted call for continued efforts to ensure Malaysia’s forests remain resilient in the face of climate change and continue to contribute to national and regional sustainability goals.
The Permanent Secretary underscored the need for long-term strategies that integrate conservation with economic development.
He emphasised that forests must be managed in ways that safeguard biodiversity while supporting livelihoods, ensuring that future generations benefit from Malaysia’s natural heritage.
As the conference concluded, delegates departed with strengthened partnerships and shared aspirations. The resolutions adopted are expected to guide meaningful actions that will further enhance sustainable forest management, conservation, and development across Malaysia.
The 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference reaffirmed Malaysia’s position as a regional leader in forestry innovation and sustainability.
With renewed commitment from all stakeholders, the country aims to ensure that its forests continue to serve as catalysts for a green economy and a sustainable future.
