29-07-2025
Rewilding project at Sg Lemidin signifies long-term mangrove restoration
Len Talif steals a glance at the camera while planting a tree during the ceremony at Sungai Lemidin, held to mark the launch of SFC's 'mangrove rewilding' project. — Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (July 29): Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has launched an on-the-ground 'mangrove rewilding' project at Sungai Lemidin in Kuching Wetland National Park, which will involve the planting of 2,000 mangrove trees across two hectares of degraded wetland area.
The initiative is part of the corporation's long-term plan to restore the vital mangrove ecosystems and also to strengthen Sarawak's environmental resilience against climate change.
According to Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development Sarawak Datuk Len Talif Salleh, the restoration project reflects the state's commitment to safeguarding biodiversity, while promoting sustainable development.
'This effort shows what we can achieve through cooperation and long-term planning.
'Our natural heritage is a valuable asset, and it is our responsibility to restore and protect it for future generations,' he told reporters after officiating at a tree-planting ceremony, meant to mark the launch yesterday.
Len Talif also said that the project launch was held in connection with the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, observed annually on July 26.
'The date highlights the importance of mangrove forests in supporting marine life, protecting shorelines and serving as natural carbon sinks.'
Meanwhile, in a press statement, SFC stated that this rewilding effort meant to be aligned with Sarawak Biodiversity Master Plan, which was launched by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg earlier this year.
'The plan was developed in partnership with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Malaysia and outlines a whole-of-government approach to biodiversity conservation.'
SFC also said that the project meant to support Sarawak's Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which places environmental sustainability and green growth among its key development pillars.
'Mangrove restoration contributes to these goals by improving biodiversity, creating green jobs and building ecological resilience in vulnerable coastal regions.
'It will continue to monitor the restoration site and explore the expansion of similar efforts to other suitable locations across the state.
'The initiative is also supported by Mubadala Energy through a collaboration agreement signed in November last year,' said SFC.
