KUCHING: The Sarawak Forest Department (FDS) launched GeoTalk Series 1/2026 as a platform to promote knowledge-sharing on biodiversity, forest ecosystems and community-led conservation within the Sarawak Delta Geopark (SDGp).
Sarawak Forest’s Director, Datuk Hamden Mohammad, who is also the manager of the Sarawak Delta Geopark, officiated at the programme titled ‘Beneath the Canopy: Understanding Plants and Community-led Conservation in Sarawak Delta Geopark (SDGp)’ at 56 Hotel here today.
According to Hamden, the GeoTalk initiative aims to create greater awareness on the diversity of endemic plants, the importance of forest ecosystems, and the role of local communities in conserving natural resources within the geopark area.
He said the programme also introduces the strategic role of the FDS as the focal agency responsible for the sustainable development and management of the Sarawak Delta Geopark.
“The programme provides an opportunity for FDS officers and staff to better understand biodiversity conservation approaches through the geopark model while enhancing awareness of community-based sustainable development,” he said in his speech.
The inaugural GeoTalk featured knowledge-sharing sessions by the head of the Geopark Management Unit and senior research officers from the FDS.
Among the topics presented were ‘Biodiversity Conservation through the Sarawak Delta Geopark Approach’ by Madeline George Pau, ‘From Buds to Biosites: Monitoring Rafflesia Populations within the Sarawak Delta Geopark Network’ by Nur Safinas Jelani, ‘Begonia (Begoniaceae) in SDGp Area’ by Julia Sang and ‘Ex-situ Conservation for Rescued Wild Orchids’ by Runi Sylvester Pungga.
The programme aligns with the criteria of UNESCO Global Geopark, including education, conservation, community engagement and strategic collaboration among agencies.
Through initiatives such as GeoTalk, the FDS continues to strengthen its role as a strategic partner in developing the Sarawak Delta Geopark as a model for education, conservation and sustainable development for future generations.
