MIRI: The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental conservation through the planting of 2,500 native tree saplings at Piasau Nature Reserve here.
The programme, held today, was part of the ecoGreenPlanet initiative launched in 2023, which aims to plant 10,000 trees by 2027.
According to STB Chairman, who is also Telang Usan Assemblyman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, this round of planting brings the total number of trees planted to date to 6,200 – or 62 per cent of the overall target.
“In 2023, the ecoGreenPlanet initiative set an ambitious yet realistic goal – to plant 10,000 trees by 2027 as part of our efforts to restore the environment and offset the carbon footprint from tourism activities.
“With the planting of 2,500 native saplings today, we have now reached 62 per cent of that target.
“Each sapling planted – from Samunsam Wildlife Sanctuary, Bukit Lima Nature Reserve, to Miri – represents our belief that tourism must be a force for good,” he said during the launch ceremony of the programme.
Dennis added that STB’s efforts go beyond tree planting, incorporating a holistic approach through various sustainable programmes under the upcoming Rainforest World Festival 2025.
These efforts include low-carbon shuttle bus systems, solar charging stations, lanyards made from repurposed wristbands by single mothers, biodiesel production from used cooking oil, and collaboration with PATA for carbon footprint monitoring.
“All these initiatives reflect our alignment with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and our role as a leader in responsible and climate-conscious tourism in the region,” he said.
The initiative is also supported by Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), Miri City Council (MCC), Tourism Malaysia, corporate sponsors, and the local community.
The programme aligns with the goals of PCDS 2030 and the SDGs, particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Programme highlights included a tree-planting briefing by park rangers, tree-planting activities by participants, group photo sessions, and a leisurely tour of Piasau Nature Reserve, before all guests were invited to enjoy lunch at the Piasau Boat Club.
