SHAH ALAM,13 JULY 2022– Universiti Teknologi MARA(UiTM) and the Republic of Azerbaijan have embarked on a tree planting initiative known as ‘TREE4FUTURE’ at the main campus in Shah Alam. The ceremony was witnessed by Azerbaijan Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Elnur Mammadov, together with Azerbaijan Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr Irfan Davudov, as well as the Vice- Chancellor of UiTM, Professor Datuk Ts. Dr Hajah Roziah Mohd Janor.

The ‘TREE4FUTURE’ programme aims to not only increase vegetation around UiTM campuses but is also a viable restoration and climate change solution. This collaboration will boost the university’s efforts to achieve Sustainable Green Campus status by 2025.

A total of 15 trees were selected including the Merbau, Delima and Penaga Lilin species. The Merbau tree, scientifically called ‘Intsia palembanica’ was chosen for its resilience which also symbolises the richness of Malaysia’s forest diversity. Meanwhile, the ‘Punica Granatum’ or Pomegranate tree was selected as culturally it symbolises well-being which is significant to the Azerbaijani life. Together, these trees signify the unity and friendship between Azerbaijan and Malaysia.

Prof. Datuk Roziah Mohd Janor said, “By purposefully planting trees, we can do our part in reducing the severity of global climate change. Our combined expertise, skills and knowledge can be leveraged to strategise mitigating climate change”.  She added that such collaborative efforts can potentially pave the way to more meaningful projects that serve the global community’s interest for a better and safer future.

The ‘TREE4FUTURE’ programme is part of UiTM’s initiative to establish and strengthen international relations with foreign embassies in Malaysia.