Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) is taking a leading role in protecting Malaysia’s forests through a new smart technology project in the Central Forest Spine (CFS) area in Gerik, Perak.
The initiative is supported by an international grant worth RM3 million under the EduGreen@UPSI programme. It reflects a growing effort to use modern technology to support environmental protection and biodiversity.
Using Smart Technology to Protect Forests
The project focuses on using advanced tools such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and smart bioacoustics.
These technologies help monitor wildlife and forest conditions in real time. Instead of relying only on manual tracking, the system can detect sounds, movements, and changes in the environment more quickly and accurately.
This allows better protection of wildlife and helps reduce risks such as illegal activities in forest areas.
Strong Global Collaboration
The project is supported through a collaboration between Procter & Gamble United States and WWF Malaysia under the Nature Pillar programme.
It was officially launched at Belum Rainforest Resort in Perak, bringing together global industry leaders, conservation organisations, and academic experts.
This partnership shows how different sectors can work together to support long term environmental goals.
UPSI Leads Innovation in Conservation
As the project leader, UPSI is responsible for developing the smart monitoring system and driving research efforts.
The project is led by Prof Dr Che Zalina Zulkifli from the Faculty of Computing and Meta Technology. The research team includes experts from different fields, working together to build a complete system for wildlife monitoring and forest protection.
The initiative also involves students and local communities, creating more opportunities for learning and participation in conservation efforts.
Supporting Biodiversity and Forest Security
The Central Forest Spine is one of Malaysia’s most important ecological areas. Protecting it is key to maintaining biodiversity and ensuring the long term health of forest ecosystems.
Through this project, UPSI aims to improve how forests are monitored and managed. The use of smart systems can help identify threats early and support faster response from authorities.
This approach also supports national efforts to strengthen forest conservation using modern solutions.
Advancing Research and Regional Leadership
The success of this project highlights UPSI’s growing role in combining education, research, and technology.
By focusing on AI and IoT based solutions, the university is helping to develop new methods for tropical forest conservation. These efforts can also serve as a model for other countries in the region.
It shows how innovation can play a key role in protecting natural resources while supporting sustainable development.
