SUNGAI PETANI, Kedah, July 12, 2024 – Leader Energy has launched a Five-Year Mangrove Conservation and Climate Action for Sustainable Living Programme in the Merbok Forest Reserve, Kedah, in collaboration with the Global Environment Centre (GEC), the Kedah State Forestry Department and Sungai Muda River Basin Management (PLSM).
To commemorate the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem 2024, one thousand Rhizophora apiculata (Bakau minyak) mangroves were planted by participants and volunteers from Leader Energy, GEC, related agencies, and the local community. This symbolic planting marks the beginning of a comprehensive rehabilitation and conservation effort that will unfold over the next five years.
Spanning from 2024 to 2029, this five-year programme aims to restore and sustainably manage 10 hectares of degraded mangrove areas in the Merbok Forest Reserve and Kuala Muda River Basin through the planting of 18,000 mangrove trees.
This programme also signifies Kedah State’s commitment to preserve its precious mangrove ecosystems by fostering a harmonious coexistence between local communities and the mangrove forests. It seeks to ensure the long-term protection and sustainable utilisation of these vital coastal habitats.
Through a collaborative effort involving private sector, local authorities, environmental organisations and community stakeholders, the project will raise awareness about the invaluable role mangroves play in mitigating the effects of climate change. By empowering communities with knowledge and practical solutions, the project aims to transform them into active stewards of these irreplaceable ecosystems, safeguarding them for generations to come and strengthen the links between mangrove conservation and local livelihoods.
The launching ceremony was officiated by Tuan Muhammad bin Abdullah, Director of the Kedah State Forestry Department. Commenting on the initiative, Tuan Muhammad said, “Mangroves are the backbone of our coastal communities, providing invaluable protection and sustaining local livelihoods. This collaborative project between the government, private sector, NGOs, local communities and stakeholders is a crucial step in safeguarding these precious natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations. By aligning this initiative with the National 100 Million Tree Planting Campaign and the National Mangrove Restoration Programme, we are demonstrating our unwavering commitment to restoring and protecting these critical ecosystems.”
Mr Gan Boon Hean, Group Chief Executive Officer of Leader Energy added, “This transformative initiative, supported by a RM 1.9 million grant and the volunteer efforts of our staff, is a testament to Leader Energy’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and our Net Zero goals. By working hand-in-hand with the community and various stakeholders, we aim to restore the mangroves, enhance carbon sequestration, and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable future for all.”
Mr. Faizal Parish, Director of GEC, emphasised the project’s holistic approach, stating, “The objective is not merely to rehabilitate the mangroves, but to empower the local community to become the guardians of this ecosystem. By building their capacity and fostering a deep sense of ownership, we aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of our conservation efforts. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, contributing to the global movement to revive and protect critical ecosystems.”
This landmark project is a significant step towards achieving the Greening Malaysia Programme through the National 100 million Tree Planting Campaign, the National Mangrove Restoration Programme and contributing to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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