MIFF and MFA join forces for environmental stewardship in Sabah

A team from the Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) and its strategic partner, the Muar Furniture Association (MFA), recently undertook a mission to Sabah to plant trees and help restore the eco-system of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

Commitment to a greener planet

On 8 and 9 July, the team planted 100 trees to fulfil a pledge made during the 30th anniversary of MIFF, Southeast Asia’s largest furniture trade show, held in March this year.

For every six virtual trees sown by visitors at the event, one real tree was to be planted. This initiative demonstrates MIFF’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Participating in the effort were MIFF General Manager Kelie Lim, MFA President Steve Ong, and MFA Executive Advisor Desmond Tan, who is also the President of the Malaysian Furniture Council (MFC).

The campaign was supported by MFA and manufacturers including Ecomate Holdings, Ivorie International, Nova Talent, HengLin Home Furnishings, and Wasaniaga.

The tree-planting initiative was facilitated by Animal Projects and Environment (APE) Malaysia at a reforestation site assigned by the Sabah Wildlife Department.

This area is Malaysia’s largest RAMSAR wetland site and home to endangered species like the Borneo pygmy elephant, orangutan, proboscis monkey, rhinoceros hornbill, and crocodiles.

MIFF 2024: A platform for environmental awareness

Launched at MIFF 2024, the tree-planting initiative aimed to raise awareness for a greener planet. The event attracted close to 20,000 visitors, a third of whom came from 120 countries and regions.

“We’re grateful for the support of the global furniture industry and sponsors,” said Kelie Lim, MIFF General Manager.

“As a leading trade show attracting international buyers from over half the world, MIFF has a real opportunity, in addition to doing business, to inspire the communities we work with to do their part for the environment.

We are pleased to see the campaign has fostered a more relaxed and positive atmosphere among visitors this year.”

Desmond Tan, MFA Executive Advisor and MFC President, echoed this sentiment: “This is a significant collaboration between MFA and MIFF and a timely endeavour which aligns with a sustainable furniture industry.”

MFA President Steve Ong added, “I’m proud to be part of this initiative. We are committed to going the extra mile with MIFF.

We are not just bringing our members to participate in MIFF, but also contributing to sustainability for a better future.”

The successful tree-planting mission in Sabah underscores MIFF and MFA’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainability within the furniture industry.

This initiative not only supports reforestation but also highlights the importance of industry-wide participation in environmental efforts.

For those interested in staying updated about MIFF 2025, you can join the mailing list or book a space by visiting the MIFF website at www.miff.com.my.

For further information, please feel free to contact the MIFF Team at [email protected].