As many as 200 tree species can be found within 1 hectare of Malaysian rainforests.
~ Turner, 2001a
Dipterocarps have a unique biology and a slow reproductive cycle. Seeds are produced during mast fruiting events which occur every 5-7 years, and the seeds are ‘recalcitrant’ – their high-water content makes them unsuitable for storage (e.g. in a seed bank), and thus must be germinated. Recalcitrant seeds rescued from forest fragments can be planted out with seeds from different parents to create a living collection of trees that can reproduce perpetually. Seeds from the living collection could then serve future reforestation projects.
The loss of biodiversity is one of the greatest environmental challenges the world faces. In Malaysia logging, agriculture, palm oil and development have all contributed to increased forest fragmentation and species loss. Approximately 80% of Malaysian rainforests are dominated by the Dipterocarpaceae family of trees, of which 93 species are considered threatened in Malaysia.
At Tropical Rainforest Conservation & Research Centre, we aim to play our part in protecting Malaysia's rare, threatened and endangered plant species. We believe in taking action and working on the ground in order to tackle biodiversity loss – one of the most pressing issues facing today’s society. Our conservation and landscape-level initiatives promote sustainable development and management practices.
The Eco Guardian Initiative Programme (eGIP) 2026 at Pulau Banding, Gerik proudly achieved a new 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 title for “𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧 𝐀 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞” after successfully assessing 1,019 trees in one day! 🌳 @malaysiabookofrecords
The programme brought together over 250 university student volunteers from Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia to conduct biodiversity and forest health monitoring activities, including tree assessments, soil studies, canopy coverage, and wildlife observations.
TRCRC was proud to support the programme alongside BFF, TREX-TRaCE, and PArM by contributing expertise in tree census protocol, and a side treeplanting event to plant 200 native seedlings.
This collaborative initiative highlights the importance of long-term forest conservation, environmental awareness, and protecting the Belum-Temengor Forest Complex for future generations.
This grand event is supported by KPT, MASKUM, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Pulau Banding Foundation, Yayasan Perkasa Siswa, and Suruhanjaya Sokongan UNESCO Malaysia.
#mbor #treecensus #volunteer #pulaubanding #belumtemenggor
Did you know that beyond the iconic dipterocarps, our Malaysian forests are also home to the fascinating Fagaceae family? 🌳
Known as the oak and chestnut family, Fagaceae species like Quercus play an important role in Malaysia’s montane and hill forests. Their acorns provide food for wildlife such as squirrels and small rodents, helping support healthy forest ecosystems. While dipterocarps dominate many lowland forests, Fagaceae species are more commonly found at higher elevations, contributing to the richness and resilience of our forest landscapes.
Recently, our TRCRC Banun team had the opportunity to learn from Fagaceae expert Dr. Joeri through an intensive 3D2N field training under our Seed-to-Tree (STT) project, funded by the UK PACT Green Transition Fund and jointly implemented by TRCRC & @bioversityciat . The training focused on building practical skills in species identification and seed source mapping, helping ensure the right seeds are planted in the right places, at the right time, for long-term forest restoration.
This knowledge also supports our seed buy-back initiatives with local communities, strengthening both ecological restoration and community participation in conservation efforts. 🌱
#TRCRC #SeedToTree #ASEANUKGTF #ASEANUK #thrivingpartnership
Planting 1,000 trees may sound impressive, but if they all come from the same genetic background, an entire forest could become vulnerable to disease, pests, or extreme weather. 😱
That’s why genetic diversity matters.
Through the Seed to Tree project, Diversity4Restoration was developed. D4R is a tool that helps guide restoration efforts using genetically diverse and climate-resilient planting materials.
Because restoring forests isn’t just about planting more trees. It’s about planting forests that can survive and thrive for generations to come. 🌳
The Seed to Tree project is funded by the ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund and jointly implemented by TRCRC & @bioversityciat .
#TRCRC #SeedToTree #ASEANUKGTF #ASEANUK #geneticdiversity
In conjunction with International Day for Biological Diversity 2026, TRCRC continues to believe that meaningful conservation begins with local action and collective responsibility 🌿
Guided by this year’s theme, “Acting Locally for Global Impact”, we recognise the importance of communities, volunteers, and restoration practitioners in protecting biodiversity and restoring degraded forests.
From collaborating with Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) through the Seedling Buyback Programme and Seed to Tree initiatives, to the dedication of the TRLC Banun Ground Team consisting of Temiar and Jahai community members, these local partnerships continue to strengthen restoration efforts on the ground.
Through initiatives such as the TRLC Merisuli native seed collection survey in Sipitang, Sabah, and volunteer-supported restoration activities under the EUBC tree planting volunteer program, TRCRC continues to support the conservation and restoration of native tropical rainforest species across Malaysia.
Together, local actions create lasting global impact 🌱
#BiodiversityDay #LocalAction #ForNature
Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming the CITIC CLSA team and members from EPF to our Elmina Living Collection Nursery at the ERKC site for an engaging visit and meaningful discussions. 🌱
We shared how TRCRC implements restoration and biodiversity strategies across landscapes, from ERKC in Elmina, Selangor to our project sites in Banun, Perak and Merisuli in Sabah, highlighting the ecological considerations that shape each site’s approach.
The strong engagement reflects growing corporate commitment to biodiversity and conservation. Visits like these strengthen knowledge sharing, encourage cross sector collaboration and align sustainability ambitions with on the ground restoration expertise.
Working together allows us to go further. We appreciate the opportunity to connect and explore how we can collectively advance restoration and conservation efforts in Malaysia. 🇲🇾
For visit or consultation enquiries, please contact us at ask@trcrc.org.
#trcrc #Biodiversity #Restoration #CorporateEngagement #erkc
Saving the best for last! 🙌
Get to know Azlan from the Jahai community, one of the many true guardians of our forests. Through this interview, he shares his deep connection with nature and the wisdom passed down through generations.
His admiration for the Merbau tree, one of Malaysia’s treasured native species, reflects the community’s enduring relationship with the rainforest and its rich biodiversity. 🌳
Conservation begins with awareness, appreciation, and education. Let’s continue supporting indigenous peoples and local communities who play a vital role in protecting our natural heritage. 💪
This interview was made possible under the Seed to Tree project funded by the ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund and jointly implemented by TRCRC & @bioversityciat .
#TRCRC #SeedToTree #ASEANUKGTF #ASEANUK
Meet Jamri from Kampung Klewang 🙌
By collecting seeds and managing his nursery, Jamri is ensuring the Royal Belum rainforest remains resilient for generations to come.
His journey from student to `Pakar Rimba` (Forest Expert) is a testament to the impact of dedicated conservation efforts.
Support Jamri and the indigenous people and local communities who make this possible!💪
This interview was made possible under the Seed to Tree project funded by the ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund and jointly implemented by TRCRC & @bioversityciat
#TRCRC #SeedToTree #ASEANUKGTF #ASEANUK
🌙✨ A little Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration throwback from TRCRC 🌙✨
Although the festive season has passed, the memories from our Hari Raya celebrations across TRLC Merisuli, TRLC Banun and ERKC Selangor still bring smiles to us all. From joyful gatherings and festive meals to laughter-filled games and shared moments, it was a celebration filled with warmth, togetherness, and community spirit 💚
Here’s to the meaningful connections built beyond our daily work, and the cherished moments that continue to remind us of the strong bonds shared within each site and team. Selamat Hari Raya from TRCRC! 🌿🎉
