Two-day conference and expo in KK to celebrate Borneo’s ‘Green Heart’

KOTA KINABALU: An international conference on Borneo’s “Green Heart” on Wednesday and Thursday (Oct 22 and 23) will revolve around the theme “Advancing climate resilience, conservation and sustainable livelihoods”.

Organised by the Sabah Forestry Department, this two-day conference celebrates the Heart of Borneo (HoB), a trilateral initiative that unites Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia in conserving one of the world’s most biologically diverse regions.

The International Conference on Borneo’s Green Heart 2025 will bring together leaders, experts and stakeholders from across the region to address pressing environmental challenges and explore sustainable opportunities for the future of Borneo, said the department.

It said the conference, to be held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here, will feature topics like climate action, what’s next for protected and conserved areas, as well as biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource use.

“The event will host four keynote addresses and 17 distinguished speakers who will share their expertise and insights on climate change, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management,” the department said in a statement.

Its first plenary session, Climate Actions in Tropical Rainforest Landscapes, will highlight Sabah’s commitment to advancing climate action across the state.

The second plenary session will explore innovative management approaches, partnerships and strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of Sabah’s protected and conserved areas, the department said.

The third plenary session will focus on strengthening forest governance, policy frameworks, enforcement and cross-sector collaboration to safeguard Sabah’s forests for future generations.

An exhibition to complement the conference will feature 22 exhibitors, including Sustainable Forest Management Licence Agreement (SFMLA) holders, state and federal agencies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Showcasing initiatives under the Sabah Heart of Borneo Initiative, the exhibition aims to inspire and engage the public on conservation and climate action.

The exhibition will be open to the public on both days.

The conference is expected to attract some 700 local and international participants, fostering knowledge exchange, collaboration and a shared commitment to advancing a sustainable and climate-resilient Borneo, the statement added.