Forests are one of the most valuable natural resources on Earth, not only as critical ecosystems but also as major contributors to human well-being and the survival of all living beings, said Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin.
The minister said this in a message in conjunction with the International Day of Forests, officially declared by the United Nations to commemorate and raise global awareness of the importance of all types of forests.
This year’s theme, ‘Forests and Food’, highlights the relationship between forests and their role in providing food sources for humans, as well as their crucial contribution to global food security.
The role of forests in human life and the environment is crucial, and they significantly contribute to ecosystem sustainability and well-being in various ways, including: Providing a variety of food sources such as fruits, vegetables, honey, mushrooms and herbs, which are an essential part of the global food supply. The biodiversity of forests also offers opportunities for discovering new food sources that can benefit communities worldwide.
Supplying medicinal plants that have long been used in traditional medicine and are increasingly being recognised in modern medical research.
Supporting food security by maintaining soil fertility, controlling erosion and sustaining ecosystem balance.
Regulating microclimates, sustaining ecosystem services and preserving biodiversity – all of which are fundamental to environmental and economic stability.
However, threats such as climate change, large-scale deforestation, and the overexploitation of natural resources, if left unchecked, could destabilise forest ecosystems and harm the environment. A report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicates that global deforestation rates were estimated at around 10 million hectares per year between 2015 and 2020. The loss of forests not only threatens biodiversity but also affects ecosystem services that support food supply chains.
In this regard, the National Forestry Policy has played a crucial role in ensuring sustainable forest management in Brunei Darussalam. Conservation and preservation efforts align with the aspirations of Brunei Vision 2035, which emphasises the importance of environmental sustainability in achieving a high quality of life.
The National Forest Policy is responsible for preserving, developing and managing forest resources for the purpose of conservation and improving the quality of life, promoting the social, political and economic well-being of the people, advancing national technological progress, and providing environmental facilities and ecological balance for the long term.
Through this policy, Brunei Darussalam is committed to increasing the area of forest reserves to at least 55 per cent of the country’s land area, classified into protection forests, production forests, recreational forests, conservation forests and national parks to ensure ecological stability and the well-being of the community.
As the lead agency for Strategy 2 (Forest Cover) under the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy (BNCCP), the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, through the Forestry Department, remains committed to preserving and conserving the country’s forests. The Greening and Forest Restoration Programme aims not only to enhance the forest’s capacity as a carbon sink but also to support food security by maintaining soil fertility, clean water sources, and the balance of essential ecosystems. Since 2020, a cumulative total of 185,000 trees have been planted, reaching 37 per cent of the target of 500,000 trees by 2035.
However, forest conservation is not the responsibility of just one party. It requires commitment and collaboration from all stakeholders, including government agencies, the private sector, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and society. In our daily lives, we can reduce the negative impacts on forests by minimising the use of environmentally harmful materials, appreciating the role of forests in providing essential ecosystem services such as food, carbon sequestration and biodiversity preservation and educating younger generations on the importance of forest conservation.
Taking these steps will bring numerous benefits to the nation and society, including ensuring sufficient food supply, improving air and water quality, reducing the effects of climate change and creating new economic opportunities through forestry and eco-tourism.
Furthermore, forest conservation efforts can enhance local ecosystem resilience, reduce risks associated with natural disasters such as landslides and floods, and increase public awareness of environmental conservation.
Imagine a world without forests – diminished food resources, barren land, polluted air, and the loss of biodiversity. It is, therefore, our responsibility to continue protecting forests, not only for our generation but also for future generations. In conclusion, “Let us unite in our efforts to safeguard and nurture our forests. By taking strategic actions, such as promoting sustainable development, supporting responsible agriculture and fisheries, reducing food waste, and engaging in tree-planting initiatives, we can drive meaningful change. Each step we take today contributes to a more sustainable and prosperous future. Forests are vital to life, and by preserving them, we protect ecosystems and secure a reliable food supply for generations to come.”
