NRES Calls For Bird-friendly Urban Planning To Protect Migratory Species

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 11 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) has called for a united effort to strengthen the conservation and protection of migratory birds by creating more bird-friendly towns and communities.

NRES emphasised that the move aligns with Malaysia's commitment as the national focal point for the East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP), which reflects the importance of providing safe and sustainable habitats for migratory species that stop over in the country annually.

“Poorly planned urbanisation can lead to habitat loss, reducing crucial stopover sites where migratory birds nest and forage,” said NRES in a statement marking World Migratory Bird Day 2025 today. 

The ministry recommended sustainable urban planning and community action through practical measures, such as reducing light pollution, planting native vegetation, and making windows more visible to prevent bird collisions.

"This year's theme, 'Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,' reflects the importance of making our urban environments safe havens for migratory birds," said the ministry. 

The statement highlighted Malaysia's longstanding commitment to this cause, noting the country has been a member of the EAAFP since 2012.

"As part of this commitment, Bako Buntal Bay in Sarawak - a crucial stopover for more than 20,000 migratory birds - was designated as Malaysia's first EAA Flyway Network Site in 2013," the ministry added.

NRES also expressed appreciation to state governments taking initiatives to protect migratory birds and nominate new Flyway Network Sites.

Established in 2006, the EAAFP aims to strengthen international cooperation and coordination for the conservation of migratory birds, their habitats and the human communities that depend on them.

This recognition aligns with Malaysia's position as one of 19 countries along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway - a major migratory route stretching from Russia and Alaska through East and Southeast Asia to Australia and New Zealand.

-- BERNAMA