Seri Iskandar, September 11, 2024 – Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Perak is at the forefront of conservation efforts as its Rector, Associate Professor Dr. Nur Hisham Ibrahim, spearheads a groundbreaking initiative to launch the physical tagging and monitoring of the critically endangered Keruing Padi (Dipterocarpus semivestitus). This strategic initiative, conducted in partnership with the Green Campus Committee and the UiTM Perak Auxiliary Police, underscores the university’s strong commitment to biodiversity preservation.
The event, attended by Deputy Rector of Student Affairs Associate Professor Sr. Dr. Mohd Azian Zaidi and key figures from the university’s executive management team, marks a significant step forward in safeguarding this rare tree species. Native to Peninsular Malaysia, particularly the Perak region, the Keruing Padi is recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as critically endangered.
“The Keruing Padi is not just important for Malaysia but for the world. This mission is part of our larger effort to ensure that future generations inherit a rich and healthy natural environment,” Dr. Nur Hisham emphasized during the launch. “Our goal with this tagging mission is to prevent further decline and ensure the species’ long-term survival.”
The tagging mission aims to systematically track the Keruing Padi population within the campus forest, where over 30 mature trees have been identified and digitized through a revisit inventory conducted in 2024. This initiative will enable ongoing monitoring and data collection, which is essential for developing informed conservation strategies. The collected data will contribute to habitat preservation efforts, targeted replanting and reforestation, and conservation measures specifically tailored to the tree’s biological needs.
“The survival of the Keruing Padi is under serious threat due to habitat destruction and climate change. However, the rising demand for this rare timber in carbon credit initiatives underscores the importance of preservation efforts,” remarked PM Dr. Nur Azfahani Ahmad, Green Campus Coordinator. She emphasized that this initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 13: Climate Action), SDG 15: Life on Land, and UiTM’s strategic plan, PI135.
On the other hand, the visit also conducted a comprehensive termite treatment under the guidance of certified arborist LAr Dr. Helmi Hamzah (CA). His expertise was instrumental in identifying signs of termite activity and assessing the health of the affected trees. Dr. Helmi implemented targeted treatment strategies to mitigate the impact of these pests, ensuring the long-term vitality of the Keruing Padi population. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate threats but also reinforces the university’s commitment to sustainable tree management and ecological balance within the campus forest.
Therefore, align with this effort, UiTM Perak’s leadership is calling on environmental authorities, academic institutions, and local communities to work together in implementing effective conservation solutions. The program is expected to catalyze further conservation efforts, positioning UiTM Perak as a pioneer in Malaysia’s biodiversity protection initiatives.
By Dr Nur Huzeima Mohd Hussain, PM Sr Dr Nur Azfahani Ahmad, LAr Dr Helmi Hamzah (CA)