KUCHING: The Forest Department Sarawak (FDS), through its Greening Sarawak Campaign, has received recognition under the ASEAN Green Initiative (AGI) 2026 in the Large-Scale Tree Planting Initiative category.

According to a statement, the recognition was presented at the 2nd ASEAN Green Initiative Recognition Event held on 9 September 2026 in Quezon City, Philippines.

“The ASEAN Green Initiative is a regional recognition programme implemented by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) to recognise tree planting initiatives that contribute to increasing tree cover and restoring ecosystems across the ASEAN region.

“The initiative promotes the planting of native tree species to support biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration,” it said on Sunday.

FDS said that the recognition reflects the department’s continued commitment to forest landscape restoration and greening efforts in Sarawak, particularly through the planting of indigenous tree species.

“From 2021 to 2025, a total of 290,846 trees from threatened species listed in the IUCN Red List were planted under the Greening Sarawak Campaign, comprising species classified as Endangered and Vulnerable,” it said.

FDS Head of Restoration and Industrial Forest Division (RIFD) Zarina Shebli received the recognition on behalf of the FDS Director and subsequently shared Sarawak’s experience in implementing the Greening Sarawak Campaign during the Ecosystem Restoration Session of the ASEAN Heritage Parks Forum 2026, alongside other AGI awardees.

This ASEAN-level recognition further strengthens FDS’ commitment to advancing forest restoration, biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management in Sarawak.

FDS extends its sincere appreciation to all stakeholders and partners for their continuous support and contribution towards the successful implementation of the Greening Sarawak Campaign.

This recognition reflects the collective commitment towards forest restoration, biodiversity conservation and the greening of Sarawak. -UKASnews