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Sarawak Tourism Board’s ecoGreen Planet initiative plants 2,000 seedlings at Bukit Lima Nature Reserve, highlighting their commitment to reforestation and sustainability.

The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) has achieved a notable milestone by planting 2,000 seedlings across five different species at the Bukit Lima Nature Reserve. This effort is a key component of the ecoGreen Planet initiative, which was launched in June 2022 during the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) and the Borneo Jazz Festival. The initiative underscores Sarawak’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, aligning with Malaysia’s national reforestation objectives through a comprehensive approach to responsible tourism.

This tree planting project is part of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), aiming to plant 10,000 trees by 2027. This initiative supports STB’s mission of promoting sustainability and responsible tourism, while also contributing to the carbon offsetting efforts for the festivals. By integrating sustainability into cultural events like the RWMF, ecoGreen Planet is enhancing the region’s environmental impact in a positive way.

According to Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor, CEO of Sarawak Tourism Board, “Our goal  is not just to offset carbon emissions but to create a lasting impact on our environment,  ensuring a greener future for generations to come.

” She added “This tree-planting activity is part of the 5-year greening programme through  ecoGreen Planet, which supports Sarawak’s aspiration to plant 35 million trees, an effort  that began on May 27^th last year.”

During the 2024 Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) introduced the Green Ruai, a space powered entirely by solar energy. This area was dedicated to showcasing green technologies and sustainable farming practices, underscoring STB’s leadership in eco-friendly event management and their comprehensive approach to responsible tourism.

The ecoGreen Planet initiative demonstrated STB’s commitment to establishing the RWMF as a sustainable festival through innovative and responsible tourism practices. The Green Ruai not only highlighted the use of cutting-edge green technologies and sustainable farming methods but also emphasized STB’s role in promoting eco-friendly event management.”By integrating sustainable practices into our festivals, we are  setting a benchmark for responsible tourism in the region,” added Sharzede.

Supported by sponsorships and ticket sales proceeds, the ecoGreen Planet initiative has been instrumental in advancing Sarawak’s reforestation efforts, promoting biodiversity conservation, and maintaining ecological balance. This initiative not only educated attendees on sustainable practices but also showcased Sarawak’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage.

The success of these efforts demonstrated the power of collective action in fostering environmental resilience and sustainability, thanks to the contributions and support of festival-goers. Their participation and dedication were crucial in achieving sustainability goals and safeguarding Sarawak’s natural heritage.