SIBU: A bold environmental partnership bringing together Lions Club International, government agencies and local stakeholders is set to restore one hectare of degraded mangrove forest in Belawai.
The Belawai Mangrove Reforestation Project, spearheaded by Lions International District 308-A2 (Sarawak Central Region Lions Clubs), aims to plant approximately 2,500 mangrove trees during its first phase. Beyond reforestation, the initiative is designed to establish a long-term framework for environmental conservation through strategic partnerships, community participation and continuous ecological stewardship.
Launching the project at a prominent hotel here on Friday afternoon (July 17), District Governor, Datuk Jimmy Tie Hien Hwa, described the initiative as more than a tree-planting programme.
“Mangrove forests are the frontline defenders of our coastal communities. They protect shorelines against erosion, provide critical habitats for marine and wildlife species, enhance biodiversity, capture carbon and support the livelihoods of fishermen who depend on healthy coastal ecosystems,” he said.
He stressed that restoring mangroves today represents an investment in environmental security, economic sustainability and the well-being of future generations.
To ensure the project’s long-term success, District 308-A2 has forged a strategic collaboration involving the Tanjung Manis District Office, the Sarawak Forest Department, Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Islam Kuala Rajang (LAKIKR) as the landowner, and Lions International District 308-A2.
The Sarawak Forest Department will provide technical guidance and quality mangrove seedlings, while the Tanjung Manis District Office will coordinate government support and facilitate implementation.
LAKIKR will make available the project site and oversee land preparation, while Lions members will mobilise volunteers, drive community engagement and sustain the initiative through environmental education and long-term conservation efforts.
Tie said the collaboration embodies the spirit of Lions Clubs International President Mark S. Lyon’s presidential theme, ‘Rooted in Service’, which emphasises building enduring partnerships that strengthen communities worldwide.
“Our roots grow stronger when we work together to build lasting connections and strengthen our world,” he said.
He added that the project also reflects District 308-A2’s own theme, ‘Build Your Stars – Light the Way for Others’, where every mangrove seedling symbolises hope, growth and a lasting legacy.
Yie also extended an invitation to Lions Clubs International President, Mark S. Lyon, to witness the official launch of the Belawai Mangrove Reforestation Project, describing his presence as a powerful endorsement of Lions International’s commitment to global environmental sustainability.
He expressed the initiative has the potential to become a model for other Lions districts worldwide by demonstrating how service organisations can move beyond conventional community projects to champion environmental advocacy, strategic partnerships and sustainable development.
The launch ceremony also featured the signing of the Belawai Mangrove Reforestation Project commemorative board by Mark and Tie, the symbolic presentation of mangrove seedlings to the Tanjung Manis District Office, as well as appreciation awards to collaborating agencies, including the Tanjung Manis District Office, the Sarikei Regional Forest Office and LAKIKR.
For Lions District 308-A2, the project represents not merely the planting of 2,500 mangrove trees, but the planting of a shared commitment to protect Sarawak’s coastal ecosystems for generations to come.
