SANDAKAN: The Sabah Forestry Department (SFD), through its Forest Research Centre (FRC), hosted the 2026 Workshop on the Taxonomic Review of Brackenridgea and Rinorea from Serpentine Areas in Sabah and the Philippines (BRW2026) on April 22.
The two-day event, organised primarily by Botanickel Sabah Sdn. Bhd. with co-organisers SFD, Sabah Parks, and TANi LAB (UiTM Sabah), brought together 24 leading botanists and researchers from Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, France, and the Netherlands. Participating institutions included the Forest Research Centre, Botanickel, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Singapore Botanical Garden, Wageningen University & Research, University of Lorraine, Sabah Parks, and UiTM Sabah.
Dr Guillaume Echevarria, chief technology officer (CTO) of Botanickel, explained that significant species discovered during the Scientific Exploration of Serpentine Ecology (SESE, ongoing since 2024) require taxonomic review. The genera Brackenridgea and Rinorea are of particular interest for their occurrence on ultramafic (serpentine) soils and heavy metal accumulation, making them valuable for ecological restoration, phytoremediation, and metal farming.
In his welcoming remarks on behalf of the Chief Conservator of Forests, Deputy Chief Conservator (Research and Development) Dr Arthur Chung emphasised taxonomy’s fundamental role in biodiversity conservation. Chief Conservator Datuk Zulkifli Suara highlighted the importance of international collaboration, stating: “This workshop demonstrates the power of regional and global partnerships – enhancing our understanding of unique plant groups and building a stronger network to safeguard Southeast Asia’s natural heritage.”
Beyond scientific objectives, BRW2026 aims to identify research priorities, strengthen institutional linkages, and support future conservation strategies. The workshop concluded with a closing address by Botanickel chairman Dr Aurélien Buteri and a souvenir presentation. – James Leong
Dr Arthur Chung (seated centre), with officials and participants during the opening ceremony.
