UPM and EXIM Bank partners in tree planting initiative

In an effort to enhance forest conservation and promote environmental well-being, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Berhad (EXIM Bank) joined hands to plant 100 forest saplings at the Sultan Idris Shah Forest Education Center (SISFEC). The collaborative initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of tree planting in restoring the forest ecosystem, increasing biodiversity, and providing a secure habitat for wildlife.

According to Prof. Ir. Dr B.T. Hang Tuah Baharudin, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network) of UPM, this partnership with EXIM Bank and other industries is crucial for educating and fostering forest conservation awareness, especially given the global challenges posed by climate change.

“As an educational institution with a Faculty of Forestry, UPM needs to educate and create forest conservation awareness to all additional parties now that the country and the world are facing global warming,” emphasized Prof. Baharudin.

“We need to save the earth and take action for the next generation, which is the well-being of the environment for our children and grandchildren. I greatly appreciate the initiative with EXIM Bank in the conservation and preservation of the forest, which is our treasure.” he added.

Promoting environmental well-being for generations

Mohd Farhan Shahrin, the Forest Conservator at SISFEC UPM, highlighted the numerous benefits that forest trees offer to human life and the environment, despite their slow growth rate. To safeguard the Merbau tree species from extinction, the team planted 40 saplings of the national tree, alongside five other species, including Merawan Siput Male, Kempas, Meranti Sarang Punai, Meranti Melantai, and Kelat.

“While forest trees take a long time to mature and grow, initiating tree planting today effectively shortens the life cycle of these plants,” explained Mohd Farhan. “By the time the existing trees reach old age and require removal, the newly planted trees will have grown significantly, serving as replacements.” Mohd Farhan said.

Mohd Farhan also highlighted that although the ideal time for planting forest trees was twenty years ago, taking action in the present will significantly contribute to a better environment for future generations.

The event was attended by Prof. Dr Shamsul Bahri Md Tamrin, the Director of CiRNET UPM, and Arshad Ismail, the President of EXIM Bank, who both expressed their support for this joint endeavour.

Through their collaborative tree planting initiative, UPM and EXIM Bank have taken a crucial step towards conserving and restoring the forest ecosystem by promoting environmental awareness and emphasizing the importance of tree planting through the preservation of our natural heritage for the well-being of generations to come.