There is no plan B(iodiversity)

The Star

25-04-2025

Biodiversity is vital for the planet and economy, with Malaysia's ecosystems offering critical resources that demand urgent protection for a sustainable future
WITH a purposeful buzz, the tiny gardener of the earth approaches bloom after bloom—drawn by nature's invitation of colour and scent. It lands gently on the petals, its tiny body dusted with golden pollen as it searches for nectar deep within the flower's heart.
To the casual eye, the bee is simply darting from flower to flower. But in actual fact, these unseen architects of biodiversity are performing one of nature's most vital tasks—transferring pollen—which ensures plants are able to reproduce, bear fruit and flourish.
The loss of these remarkable pollinators could trigger a chain of collapse—flowers would fade, forests would falter and the food that sustains humans would grow scarce.
Bringing Back Our Rare Animals (BORA) executive director Datuk Dr John Payne warns that the collapse in pollinator populations and diversity—already evident in some food crops—could drastically reduce Earth's human carrying capacity.
'Ensuring that biodiversity is systematically embedded in all aspects of societal development is essential to mitigating the adverse impacts of economic growth and infrastructure expansion on ecological integrity,' says Ching
'We are entering an era of multiple holocausts, including mass starvations, mass human movements from deteriorating landscapes to better ones, rising sea levels making coastal settlements unlivable, and most rice fields forever unusable,' he says.
Despite this bleak outlook, the veteran conservationist notes that some life forms—and a
portion of humanity—may survive by adapting to a future that relies on wind-pollinated plants and synthesised sources of protein and minerals.
Echoing Payne's thoughts, Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) president Anna Wong says the food chain and the natural balance are thrown off course when ecosystems are disturbed.
'This disruption creates a ripple effect—impacting animals and humans alike. For instance, if prey species like the Malayan tiger decline or vanish, it can break the predator-prey dynamic, weakening the entire ecosystem.
'The consequences extend to people, too. Our access to essential resources—like food, clean air and biodiversity—are closely tied to ecosystem health. As species go extinct, future generations get robbed of the chance to witness, learn from, and live alongside these creatures in their natural habitats,' says Wong.
As species go extinct, future generations get robbed of the chance to witness, learn from, and live alongside these creatures in their natural habitats,' says Wong.
Earth Day, a step but not the answer
Earth Day, observed on April 22 every year, aims to raise awareness about environmental protection and climate action. Wong highlights the importance of collective responsibility, emphasising that even small, daily actions—like conserving energy and reducing pollution—can have a lasting impact.
'Earth Day reminds people that caring for the planet is a shared responsibility—one that begins with the choices we make every day. These campaigns are especially meaningful for educating younger generations.'
Payne offers a more sobering perspective. 'Earth Day alone won't solve the crisis,' he says, pointing out that powerful economic forces, including fossil fuel industries and governments, often resist change despite overwhelming evidence of climate disasters.
'Carbon is easier to measure and monetise than biodiversity,' Payne explains, noting that economic structures largely prioritise carbon due to its simplicity and financial opportunities, while biodiversity remains harder to quantify and monetise.
While Earth Day alone cannot solve the climate crisis, it has sparked some real-world impact - driving education, policy change, and public engagement. It serves as a reminder that protecting biodiversity is not just an ethical imperative but an economic necessity.
Citing Leo Tolstoy, Payne notes that 'one of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between man and nature shall not be broken.'
Business and biodiversity
The green economy focuses on sustainability through eco-friendly practices. 'In Malaysia, leveraging its rich biodiversity for nature tourism, like eco-tourism, can boost the economy while preserving ecosystems. This approach creates jobs, attracts tourists, and promotes conservation, proving that economic growth and biodiversity
protection can thrive together,' says Wong.
While agreeing that biodiversity and the economy are linked, Payne points out that people must be clear that biodiversity can be viewed in two ways.
'The first is that biodiverse ecosystems are more resilient than non-diverse ones in the face of changing conditions, and the greater the diversity, the more options in the future for finding genetic combinations of value to human welfare.
'The second perspective is that biodiversity does not necessarily mean maximal species diversity at all costs. Instead, it means picking and choosing some species of micro-organisms, fungi, plants and animals, and turning some of them to use in human welfare,' says Payne.
Zoological Society of London (ZSL) sustainable finance specialist Dr Gopalasamy Reuben Clements highlights that over 50% of the world's economy depends on nature's services. From agriculture to food and beverage, forestry and even heat utilities, at least eight major sectors rely heavily on healthy ecosystems to function.
During a session on 'Why biodiversity matters to businesses' at the National Climate Governance Summit (NCGS) 2025 held earlier this month, Reuben says that as biodiversity declines, supply chains face disruption, costs rise and financial systems grow more unstable. Simply put, safeguarding nature is not only an environmental imperative—it is a smart economic strategy.
Biodiversity, an economic driver
Biodiversity has long been intertwined with Malaysia's economy. From a history rooted in agriculture and commodity exports, Malaysia has evolved into a diverse economy, embracing sectors like manufacturing, services, and tourism.
As the country focuses on sustainability, energy transition and carbon reduction, biodiversity has emerged as a critical pillar for both environmental and economic growth.
Malaysia is recognised as one of the world's 17 megadiverse countries, rich in ecosystems, species and genetic diversity.
The country's tropical rainforests, some of the most biodiverse on earth, play a pivotal role in addressing climate change, ensuring water and food security, and enhancing quality of life.
Agriculture, a key sector in Malaysia, relies heavily on biodiversity, providing raw materials for food, timber, biofuels and medicinal herbs.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES) secretary-general Datuk Dr Ching Thoo Kim says: 'Biodiversity offers essential ecological services such as pollination, carbon sequestration and climate regulation. These services are foundational to industries like agriculture, fisheries and tourism, contributing to clean air and water, public health and long-term economic stability.'
He adds that the nation's unique flora and fauna hold untapped potential for innovation. Biotech research, bioprospecting, and the discovery of new medicines and natural products can open new revenue streams for businesses. Traditional knowledge of biodiversity can further enhance climate-resilient farming and boost the market for organic and sustainable products.
'As biodiversity becomes more crucial, businesses are recognising the risks of biodiversity loss. Disruptions in supply chains, regulatory fines, and reputational damage can result from neglecting biodiversity, especially for companies that rely on natural resources.
'Conversely, prioritising biodiversity can attract green investments, align businesses with ESG principles, and open sustainable market opportunities driven by eco-conscious consumer demand.'
In Malaysia, businesses are increasingly engaging in biodiversity conservation efforts. The Greening Malaysia Programme, aimed at planting 100 million trees by 2025, is one example of private sector participation.
To further these efforts, Ching shares that the government has established the Malaysia Platform for Business and Biodiversity (MPBB), which fosters partnerships between the private sector, government, and non-governmental organisations to achieve national biodiversity goals.
'Biodiversity is not just an environmental issue—it is a business imperative. By investing in biodiversity, businesses can manage risks, drive innovation, enhance their corporate social responsibility (CSR) profiles, and open new growth opportunities.'
'As the world continues to confront climate change and environmental degradation, integrating biodiversity into business strategies will strengthen resilience and ensure long-term sustainability,' he adds.
One with nature
Citing Leo Tolstoy, Payne notes that 'one of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between man and nature shall not be broken.' Simply put, it means true happiness begins when people stay connected to nature and care for it.
'The growing focus and reliance on digitalisation is quite reckless because it tends to break that link, little by little, over many years. Very many—probably the majority of—businesses are biodiversity-neutral or not linked to biodiversity.
'It is difficult to imagine how those might contribute to conserving biodiversity. Businesses that control large areas of rural land can play a correspondingly large role in biodiversity conservation.'
However, he points out that companies like oil palm grower Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd are leading the way in biodiversity conservation. In Pahang, Enggang Holdings Sdn Bhd has embraced corporate nature management through land designated by the State government, a model that needs wider adoption. The Habitat Penang Hill also supports conservation through its Habitat Foundation.
Other corporations actively contributing to biodiversity conservation include Sime Darby Property, which integrates nature into urban living through parks, wetlands, and native tree conservation; Gamuda Land, which audits, transplants trees, and restores habitats; and IOI Group, which protects high conservation value areas and collaborates on wildlife coexistence projects.
Meanwhile, Wong adds that many businesses participate in environmental efforts like tree planting campaigns, fostering sustainable practices that help restore ecosystems and combat climate change.
'CSR initiatives help companies connect with local communities and promote sustainable practices, which ultimately contribute to long-term environmental health.
'There is still hope for reversing some of the damage done by human activities, such as deforestation and pollution, if we act quickly,' says Wong.
To conclude, let us take a cue from the renowned Sir David Attenborough, who once says: 'Nature once determined how we survive. Now we determine how nature survives.'
The fate of Malaysia's rich biodiversity lies firmly in our hands. What we choose to protect today will shape the world we leave behind—because every day should be Earth Day.
A strategic green bet for Malaysia
Effective biodiversity conservation in Malaysia requires a comprehensive and integrated approach—one that actively involves all stakeholders.
Recognising the urgency and importance of this mission, the government is in the process of establishing the Malaysia Biodiversity Centre (MBC).
As one of the world's 17 megadiverse countries, Malaysia carries a significant responsibility in global biodiversity stewardship, and the MBC represents a bold step forward in fulfilling this role.
Envisioned as a centre of scientific excellence, the MBC aims to strengthen the national institutional framework for biodiversity conservation.
According to Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES) secretary-general Datuk Dr Ching Thoo Kim, the MBC will excel in several core functions, including the management of scientific collections and biodiversity databases, coordinating scientific research for the science-policy interface, establishing advanced biodiversity training centres, organising exhibitions and outreach programmes, and providing advisory and consulting services.
Progress towards the MBC has been tangible. In March 2023, the National Biodiversity Council and the Cabinet endorsed the plan, with funding to be mobilised through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
The National Policy on Biological Diversity 2022–2030, launched in October 2023, identifies the MBC as a key enabler, with a target for it to become operational before 2030.
'The Malaysia Biodiversity Information System (MyBIS) has expanded its database to over 1.2 million entries, including expert directories and species images—supporting robust, data-driven biodiversity research,' says Ching.
'The National Biodiversity Scientific Collection Inventory Programme has successfully built national capacity in biodiversity scientific collection management, documenting more than 172,000 data entries, including 24,561 digital images.'
Additionally, land for the MBC has been secured in Jalan Cochrane, Kuala Lumpur. Ching adds that the MBC will address longstanding gaps in biodiversity governance and research, complementing state-level efforts with modern laboratories, international collaborations, and comprehensive data infrastructure.
'In the short term, the MBC is expected to enhance policy coordination, attract global funding, and provide rapid scientific input during environmental crises. For the corporate sector, it will offer access to vital biodiversity data, strengthen ESG reporting, and support the development of nature-based solutions.
'In the long term, the MBC will position Malaysia as a leader in integrating biodiversity into climate strategies, supporting low-carbon development, fostering ecosystem resilience, and unlocking green investment and innovation opportunities for businesses,' he adds.
Aligned with the National Policy on Biological Diversity, the MBC supports all five strategic thrusts, including strengthening governance, advancing research, promoting sustainable use, enhancing international reporting, and integrating biodiversity into national economic and ESG frameworks.
'While almost every megadiverse country has established a centre of excellence for biodiversity management, Malaysia remains one of the few without a national biodiversity centre.
'Protecting and sustainably using biodiversity can generate economic benefits through eco-tourism, biotechnology innovations, and sustainable resource management practices.'
'It will also showcase the wonders of Malaysia's biodiversity, offering people from all walks of life the opportunity to experience it firsthand and deepen their understanding of nature.
Beyond policy and research, the MBC is also about people. 'It will foster a new generation of biodiversity professionals—taxonomists, data scientists, and conservationists—essential to building a green and knowledge-based economy,' Ching emphasises.