Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) and CIMB Islamic have launched a strategic collaboration to strengthen the UPSI Edu-Forest in Behrang through RM500,000 in EcoSave-i funding.
The initiative will support biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and sustainable community development within the 25-acre forest reserve area located in Perak.
Managed through UPSI’s Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation (CeBEC), the project also involves support from the University Community Transformation Centre (UCTC) and Forest House Sdn Bhd.
Focus on Sustainability and Environmental Learning
UPSI Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment between universities, industry players, and local communities in advancing sustainability efforts.
The funding will support programmes involving biodiversity education, citizen science, green innovation, and documentation of natural heritage.
He added that the project is expected to provide long-term educational and environmental benefits while strengthening UPSI’s role in conservation and sustainability leadership.
Supporting Community Participation
CIMB Islamic Chairman Datin Azlina Mahmad said the Edu-Forest project serves not only as a research and learning site, but also as a platform to raise public awareness about biodiversity protection.
The development includes components such as observation decks, watch towers, forest trails, and replanting activities designed to encourage participation from NGOs, private companies, and local communities.
The initiative also creates opportunities for the Orang Asli community in Kampung Tibang through involvement in trail construction and nursery management activities.
Strengthening Malaysia’s Conservation Ecosystem
Forest House Sdn Bhd Managing Director Rayman Ariff Soh said the UPSI Edu-Forest has strong potential as a centre for environmental learning and public engagement.
Several activities have already been implemented, including tree census work, seed collection, and replanting programmes aimed at supporting long-term conservation efforts.
Located within the Behrang Forest Reserve, the site carries triple-gazetted protection status and forms part of the Central Forest Spine ecological network in Peninsular Malaysia.
A Broader Push for Sustainable Development
The collaboration reflects growing interest in partnerships that combine education, conservation, and community development under broader sustainability goals.
As environmental awareness increases across Malaysia, projects like the UPSI Edu-Forest are expected to play a bigger role in connecting research, public participation, and long-term biodiversity protection.
