SANDAKAN: The Forest Research Centre (FRC) of the Sabah Forestry Department has launched its Research Programmes for 2026–2030, setting a strategic direction for forestry research to strengthen sustainable forest management, climate resilience and biodiversity conservation in Sabah.
The five-year programme was officiated by Chief Conservator of Forests, Datuk Zulkifli Suara. It outlines five key research areas aimed at generating scientific knowledge, improving forestry practices and supporting informed decision-making.
The first area, forest ecosystems, focuses on monitoring the health of terrestrial and mangrove forests, assessing soil productivity, studying climate-related risks and evaluating blue carbon potential. It also includes the integration of spatial data into the Sabah Ecosystem Hub to support more effective, science-based forest management.
The second area, forest biodiversity and conservation, aims to document Sabah’s rich diversity of plant, fungal and wildlife species, while strengthening efforts to protect threatened species and their habitats.
Under forest plantation research, FRC will focus on improving timber productivity through tree improvement programmes and trials of fast-growing species. Meanwhile, research on forest produce and products will explore better wood utilisation and the potential of non-timber forest products.
The fifth area, forest socio-economics, recognises the importance of communities in sustainable forest management. Research will examine community participation, traditional knowledge, social impacts, nature tourism opportunities and sustainable financing.
Complementing these research efforts, the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), also under FRC, will continue to promote environmental education and forest recreation, drawing on scientific research to raise public awareness and appreciation of forests.
The 2026–2030 research agenda is aligned with the Sabah Forest Policy 2018 and the resolutions of the 20th Malaysian Forestry Conference. It also supports key priorities in biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, Nature-Based Solutions, industrial tree plantations and community-based social forestry.
Through this integrated research agenda, FRC aims to strengthen the scientific foundation of Sabah’s forestry sector, support effective forest management and ensure that the state’s forest resources are conserved and sustainably utilised for generations to come. – James Leong
Zulkifli Suara (third from right), and senior Sabah Forestry Department officials holding copies of the FRC Research Programmes 2026–2030 following its official launch.
