KUCHING – The Forest Department Sarawak has welcomed a high-level delegation from Bhutan as part of efforts to deepen cooperation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism.
The courtesy visit took place on 26 June at the department’s headquarters, led by Director of Forests Sarawak, YBhg. Datu Haji Hamden bin Haji Mohammad.
The Bhutanese delegation comprised officials from tourism and government agencies, including Ms. Pema Zangmo Sherpa, Mr. Neten Dorji, Mr. Samdrup Dargay, Ms. Kuenga Lhamo, Ms. Tshering Lhamo, Mr. Sangay Tobgay, Mr. Dorji Tshewang and Ms. Karma Yangden Sherpani. Their visit provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge and share best practices in forest management, biodiversity protection and ecotourism development.
Discussions during the meeting centred on integrating conservation principles into tourism planning, strengthening protected area management, and encouraging community participation in ecotourism initiatives.
Both sides explored avenues for future collaboration, including technical exchanges and joint projects that could benefit Sarawak and Bhutan.
Datu Haji Hamden highlighted Sarawak’s ongoing commitment to sustainable development, stressing that effective forest conservation and responsible tourism are essential to safeguarding natural resources.
He expressed appreciation for the Bhutanese delegation’s engagement, noting that international partnerships are vital in advancing biodiversity conservation and promoting knowledge sharing.
“International cooperation plays a crucial role in ensuring that biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism benefit both present and future generations,” he said, reaffirming Sarawak’s dedication to building strong global ties in these areas.
The visit reflects Bhutan’s own reputation for prioritising environmental sustainability, with its tourism policies often cited as examples of balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
Sarawak’s collaboration with Bhutan is expected to enhance regional and global efforts to protect biodiversity while promoting ecotourism as a driver of sustainable development.
Officials from both sides agreed that strengthening cooperation will not only improve conservation outcomes but also foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding between communities.
The partnership is seen as a step towards building resilient ecosystems and sustainable tourism models that can serve as benchmarks for other regions.
The Forest Department Sarawak continues to position itself as a leader in conservation and ecotourism, with initiatives aimed at protecting forests while creating opportunities for local communities.
The engagement with Bhutan underscores the department’s commitment to international collaboration as part of its broader mission to safeguard Sarawak’s rich biodiversity.
