SUBANG, SELANGOR: On November 11-12, 2024, the Sawit Kinabalu Conservation and Biodiversity Unit participated in a workshop focused on developing a framework for Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (NF-OECMs). This event was organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRES) in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).
The NF-OECMs framework will enhance the implementation of OECMs in Malaysia, aligning with the National Policy on Biodiversity 2022-2030 (NPB) and fulfilling the country’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). OECMs are defined as geographically distinct areas, outside of Protected Areas, managed to achieve positive long-term outcomes for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem functions, and relevant cultural and socio-economic values.
The Sg. Pin Conservation Area in the Kinabatangan district is recognized as a potential site for designation as an OECM in Malaysia. Over the two-day workshop, participants engaged in a series of insightful presentations, including:
Session 1: The Asian Philosophy of Protected Areas as the Genesis of OECMs? by Prof. Amran Hamzah
Session 2: Scaling Ambition and Action for Effective and Equitable Area-Based Conservation by Dr. Madhu Rao, Chair of IUCN-WCPA (pre-recorded presentation)
Session 3: Re-visiting the GEF-SGP Project – Recognising and Reporting OECMs in Malaysia by Ms. Mellisa Payne from SEARPP
Session 4: Recognising OECMs From the Legal and Governance Perspectives by Prof. Dr. Wan Izatul Asma Wan Talaat from UMT
Session 5: Sustainable Financing and Funding Opportunities for OECMs by Prof. Mohamad Rafee Majid from UTM & Mr. Julian Hyde from Reef Check Malaysia
Session 6: Involvement of IPLCs in OECMs by Mr. Gordon John from PACOS Trust
Session 7: Draft National Framework for OECMs in Malaysia
Participants also engaged in breakout sessions to gather support, opinions, and feedback from stakeholders in developing a national framework for recognizing and reporting OECMs in Malaysia.
Thank you for the incredible opportunity to be part of this important initiative!
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