Gov't Allocates Over RM71 Million For Mangrove Conservation, Maintenance - Johari

TUMPAT, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- The government has allocated over RM71 million for the planting and maintenance of mangrove trees and suitable species nationwide from 2006 to date, said Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

Johari, who is also the Acting Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), said the allocation covers research and development, monitoring activities, and public awareness programmes.

“As of September this year, 3,820 hectares of coastal and mangrove forest areas have been planted with over nine million mangrove trees and other suitable species along the country's coastline.

“This achievement is supported by more than 120 research studies that serve as key references, along with the active involvement of 13 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and local communities," he said in his speech read out by NRES secretary-general Datuk Dr Ching Too Kim, during the National Celebration of the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem and National Social Forestry Carnival 2025 today.

Johari said the initiative not only strengthens efforts to preserve mangrove forests and coastal areas but also creates economic opportunities for local communities.

Johari further highlighted the significant nationwide successes of the conservation programme.

Notably, the planting initiative at Delta Kelantan, Pantai Senok has become an eco-tourism destination, while the charcoal industry in Larut Matang, Perak, continues to contribute to the national economy.

“In addition, research and learning centres  in Kuala Selangor, as well as new economic opportunities in Pulau Ketam, Perlis, and three areas in Sarawak, have been gazetted as fully protected zones, generating over RM3 million annually. In Sabah, the areas planted since 2006 have become a vital source of seafood for local communities,” he said.

Johari emphasised that the government, through NRES, will continue its sustainable mangrove and coastal forest conservation efforts.

Earlier, Tengku Mahkota of Kelantan, Tengku Muhammad Fakhry Petra, officiated the programme and launched the book Mangroves: Beyond the Treasures.

-- BERNAMA