KUCHING: The Sarawak Government through the Forest Department Sarawak (FDS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), Japan to facilitate collaboration in research activities for Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) in the state.
The MoU signed during the Bilateral Collaboration Research Towards SFM in Sarawak Symposium in Tsukuba, Japan yesterday (Dec 1), holds significant importance in establishing methodologies essential for evaluating and executing crucial forest ecosystem functions and services, as outlined in the global biodiversity frameworks under Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 15th Conference of Parties (COP15).
Apart from research activities for SFM,the MoU covers diverse areas of cooperation, including forest ecosystem and biodiversity conservation, standardisation of research methodologies for the Permanent Sample Plot network, handling research data, joint data analysis, and capacity building through workshops, conferences, and training sessions.
FDS director Datuk Hamden Mohammad said the government also emphasises the importance of a strong research foundation which involves adopting new and innovative approaches, as well as leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve, enhance and support the sustainable management of forests in Sarawak.
Meanwhile, NIES Japan president Dr Kimoto Masahide said both parties share a common goal of creating a sustainable society, complementing the joint research effort concentrating on sustainable forest management in Sarawakian Tropical Forests.
“The commitment we make today will undoubtedly strengthen the connection between both parties, paving the way for valuable teamwork, innovation, and mutual development,” he said.
Prior to the signing ceremony, the parties have also participated in the symposium organised by NIES, Japan.
The symposium focuses on the importance of scientific data and scientific based information in decision making pertaining to SFM.
Six papers were also presented by researchers and all papers highlighted the importance of scientific data and scientific based information to support the Sarawak government in decision and policy making.
Among those present were NIES Biodiversity Division director Dr Yamano Hiroya and FDS deputy director Semilan Ripot.
