Latest news with #UNFF20
The Star
12-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Malaysia proposes formal convention to strengthen UN Forum on Forests
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has proposed that the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) be strengthened into a formal convention to enhance national commitments towards the sustainable management, conservation and development of forest resources. The proposal was presented during the 20th session of the UNFF (UNFF20) at UN Headquarters in New York last week. The Malaysian delegation was led by Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry secretary-general Datuk Dr Ching Thoo a/l Kim. In a statement, the ministry said Malaysia called for the transformation of the UNFF from a voluntary and non-legally binding instrument into a more formal, convention-based framework. "This would strengthen the commitment of countries in the sustainable management, conservation, and development of forest resources,' the statement read. During the session from May 5 to 9, Malaysia also shared its views and input in line with the ministry's aspirations, particularly its efforts to maintain forest cover, which currently stands at 54.31% of the country's total land area. Malaysia also emphasised the importance of implementing land-use policies such as the National Forestry Policy and the National Policy on Biological Diversity 2022-2030. The Malaysian delegation also highlighted the need to support the forestry sector through technology transfer, capacity building, and financial assistance for developing nations. In addition, it highlighted the crucial role of forests in addressing climate change and conserving biodiversity, including their function as carbon sinks – an important element in achieving the national target of net zero emissions by 2050. This is in line with Malaysia's commitments under the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. "These efforts contribute directly to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land),' the statement read. The UNFF serves as a platform for policy development, especially in implementing sustainable forest management, and facilitates continuous dialogue among governments, international organisations, and other forestry stakeholders. Over 300 delegates from 70 countries, including Malaysia, attended the meeting. – Bernama
Leaders
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Showcases Forest Conservation Efforts at UN Forum
Saudi Arabia is actively participating in the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20), currently taking place at the UN Headquarters in New York City. The event has brought together global delegations, along with leading environmental and forestry experts, to advance international dialogue on sustainable forest management. United Nations Forum on Forests During the opening session, Dr. Najeeb Alsubhi, head of the Saudi delegation, delivered the Kingdom's national address. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's local and regional initiatives aimed at protecting and restoring forests, and called for stronger international cooperation to secure the long-term sustainability of forest ecosystems. Later in the session, Dr. Saleh Alzamanan, Director of Mangrove Forests at the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC), emphasized the importance of empowering local communities to derive sustainable benefits from forests, aligning community engagement with broader environmental goals. The UN Forum on Forests serves as the leading global platform for forest-related discussions. It aims to promote sustainable forest management, preserve natural resources, balance economic and environmental priorities, and monitor progress toward the UN Strategic Plan for Forests 2017–2030. Moreover, the forum also focuses on reversing deforestation, expanding protected forest areas, and advancing the role of forests in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Saudi Arabia's participation reflects its strong commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable land use, and leadership in forest sustainability initiatives. Additionally, the Kingdom recognizes the vital role forests play in combating desertification and climate change, reducing urban heat, and enhancing biodiversity—key components of its broader sustainable development vision. NCVC As part of the forum, the NCVC will host a side event on Wednesday in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The session will also highlight Saudi Arabia's forest protection strategies and promote international collaboration for sustainable forestry. The NCVC continues to lead several major initiatives, including the ambitious 'Grow 60 Million Trees' campaign, which aims to rehabilitate 300,000 hectares of land by 2030. In addition, the NCVC enforces the Executive Regulation for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, with a strong focus on Article Six related to forest management. This article mandates the implementation of a national sustainable forest plan and the regulation of grazing within forested areas. Related Topics: King Salman Reserve Authority Enhances Environmental Conservation, Ecosystem Restoration Saudi Green Initiative Day: Fostering Culture of Environmental Responsibility Riyadh Hosts First National Greening Forum Green Riyadh Program begins afforestation of residential neighborhoods, starting with Azizia Short link : Post Views: 15
