KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) has planted 2,000 seedlings of five species at the Bukit Lima Nature Reserve in Sibu.
STB said the effort was part of the ecoGreen Planet programme, which was launched in June 2022 at the Rainforest World Music Festival and Borneo Jazz Festival, to support Malaysia's national reforestation goals through a holistic approach to responsible tourism.
"The planting initiative fulfils a five-year memorandum of understanding inked with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) to plant 10,000 trees by 2027.
"This commitment supports STB's mission of advocating sustainability and responsible tourism, as well as contributing to carbon offsetting efforts for festivals.
"EcoGreen Planet's dedication to integrating sustainability into cultural events enhances the region's environmental footprint," it said.
STB chief executive officer Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor said their aim was not only to neutralise carbon emissions but also to make a lasting positive impact on the environment, securing a greener future for the next generations.
"This tree-planting activity is part of a five-year greening programme through ecoGreen Planet, which supports Sarawak's aspiration to plant 35 million trees, which began on May 27 last year."
STB had introduced Green Ruai, a space powered by solar energy, showcasing green technologies and sustainable farming practices at the 2024 Rainforest World Music Festival.
"This initiative highlighted STB's leadership in eco-friendly event management and its comprehensive approach to responsible tourism," Sharzede said.
"By integrating sustainable practices into our festivals, we are setting a benchmark for responsible tourism in the region."