KUALA LUMPUR – A new collaborative research initiative aimed at enhancing biodiversity conservation within oil palm landscapes was formalized today.
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Saremas Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Wilmar Plantations Sdn Bhd, to conduct an extensive ecological study.
The research will focus on a *1,725.35-hectare* conservation area managed by Wilmar within its Saremas and Segarmas plantations in Sarawak.
The project, led by Professor Dr. Mohd Azlan Jayasilan from UNIMAS’s Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation (IBEC), will analyze wildlife species, their habitats, and local community interactions with forest resources.
UNIMAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit stated that the findings are expected to identify critical biodiversity hotspots, refine mapping techniques, and help design conservation corridors, thereby promoting more sustainable land management.
Wilmar Plantations Executive Director Gucharan Singh noted that the partnership adds scientific rigor to the company’s long-term conservation strategies, which are already monitored by 29 dedicated rangers.
This agreement continues a strategic partnership active since 2014. A prior collaboration produced the publication “Bukit Durang: Hidden Gems of Ulu Suai, Sarawak” in 2023, which detailed biodiversity findings from a 994-hectare conservation site.
The MoA signing was witnessed by UNIMAS Board Chairman Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Sulong Matjeraie and other senior officials.
