SANDAKAN: The Sabah Forestry Department has announced the publication of the official Proceedings from the 20th Malaysian Forestry Conference (MFC).
The prestigious conference, hosted in Kota Kinabalu in October 2024 under the theme “Harmonising Forestry towards Sustainability,” brought together leading experts and practitioners to shape the future of forest management.
This comprehensive 566-page volume captures the full spectrum of knowledge shared at the event, including three keynote addresses, 24 working papers, 13 information papers, and summaries of 30 poster presentations. It stands as a critical repository of contemporary research, policy analysis, and innovative practices in Malaysian forestry.
In his remarks upon receiving the publication, the Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Frederick Kugan, emphasized the urgent importance of sustainable forestry.
“These proceedings encapsulate our collective commitment to practices that balance ecological integrity, economic viability, and social responsibility,” said Kugan.
“The insights within are vital for aligning our national efforts with global objectives, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the United Nations Forum on Forests.”
The conference and its published findings centred on five pivotal sub-themes critical to modern forest management: Policy and Governance Framework, International Cooperation and Partnership, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Biodiversity Conservation, Plantations in Forests and Beyond, and Community Involvement and Stakeholders Engagement.
Kugan extended his gratitude to the teams responsible for the publication’s preparation, notably officials from the Forest Sector Planning Division at Forestry Headquarters and the Forest Research Centre in Sepilok.
“Their dedication has ensured this valuable knowledge is effectively documented and shared,” he added.
The Proceedings will be distributed to forestry departments across Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia, serving as a key reference to guide policy and strengthen sustainable forest management nationwide.
The publication also marks the transition to the next chapter of this important dialogue. The 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference will be hosted by the Forest Department Sarawak later this year, continuing the legacy of collaboration and progress established by the 20th MFC. – James Leong
Kugan (4th right), holding a copy of the 20th MFC Proceedings, alongside forestry officials involved in the publication.
