KUCHING: The Malaysian Conservation Conference (MCC) 2026 needs to serve as a catalyst for the implementation of integrated actions in strengthening the nation’s biodiversity conservation agenda, not just a platform for sharing knowledge and research results.

Permanent Secretary to the Ministry for Urban Development and Natural Resources Datu Abdullah Julaihi said that every research finding, recommendation and sharing of expertise presented throughout the conference needs to be translated into policies, strategies and actions capable of providing a long-term impact on natural resource conservation efforts.

According to him, the success of biodiversity conservation depends on the commitment of all parties to take action collectively, thus ensuring that the nation’s natural treasures are preserved for the sake of future generations.

"This conference should not end with a mere presentation. What is more important is how all the ideas, suggestions and findings shared can be translated into actions that truly benefit conservation efforts," he said.

He said this during the MCC 2026 Welcome Dinner held at a leading hotel here on Tuesday.

He added that efforts to conserve biodiversity require continuous strategic collaboration involving government agencies, research institutions, universities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the private sector and development partners so that expertise, resources and experience can be mobilised more effectively.

Datu Julaihi said that MCC 2026 which brought together about 200 delegations from 37 organisations served as a platform to strengthen cooperation networks, share best practices and discuss solutions to the increasingly complex challenges of biodiversity conservation.

He also emphasised the importance of strengthening the conservation financing mechanism to ensure that efforts to protect biodiversity, natural habitats and ecosystems can be carried out sustainably in line with sustainable development aspirations.

"We cannot move alone. Each organisation has expertise and experience that complement each other. Through strong cooperation, we are able to achieve a common goal in preserving the nation's biodiversity treasures," he said.

In the meantime, he expressed his appreciation to all government agencies, research institutions, universities, NGOs, development partners and sponsors who made MCC 2026 a success, while hoping that the network of collaboration established through the conference will continue to be strengthened to support the implementation of the nation’s biodiversity conservation agenda.

MCC 2026 brings together researchers, policy makers, industry practitioners and protected area managers from all over the country as a platform to strengthen knowledge sharing, innovation and collaboration in strengthening Malaysia's biodiversity conservation efforts. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Lonney Jinab
Photo: Lonney Jinab
Translator: Nerissa Sia