KUCHING, 13 July 2026 – The 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference (MFC) was officially opened this evening by The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak, at the Pullman Hotel, Kuching.
Hosted by Forest Department Sarawak under the theme "Forests as Catalyst for a Green Economy," the 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference continues its long-standing tradition of bringing together forestry leaders, policymakers, researchers and practitioners from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak to strengthen collaboration, exchange knowledge and chart the future direction of sustainable forest management in Malaysia.
The ceremony featured a commemorative video presentation celebrating 60 years of the Malaysian Forestry Conference, reflecting on the milestones and collaborative achievements of Malaysia's forestry sector since the inaugural conference in 1966. The video underscored the enduring commitment of the forestry authorities of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak towards the sustainable management, conservation and development of the nation's forest resources. Following his officiating address, the Premier officially declared the 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference open.
A highlight of the evening was the exchange of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and one Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between Forest Department Sarawak and its strategic partners, namely the Sabah Forestry Department, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Craun Research Sdn. Bhd., Tulen International Sdn. Bhd., and Sarawak Energy Berhad (through SEB Power Sdn. Bhd.). These collaborations cover forest fire management, forestry research, tissue culture and industrial tree plantations, sustainable propagation of indigenous tree species, as well as wildlife and flora monitoring under the Baleh Hydroelectric Project.
Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of a Malaysia Book of Records certificate to Forest Department Sarawak for achieving the record of "Most Native IUCN Red List Tree Species Planted in a Forest Reserve in a Year." The recognition reflects the Department's continued commitment to conserving threatened native tree species and advancing forest restoration efforts in Sarawak.
The ceremony concluded with a vibrant cultural performance, commemorative photo session and welcoming dinner, providing delegates with an opportunity to strengthen professional ties ahead of the conference's technical sessions over the next two days, where discussions will centre on harnessing forests as a catalyst for a green economy.