Government Reaffirms 50% Forest Cover Commitment at MTN Meeting

Putrajaya, El Sky News – The Federal Government has once again reaffirmed its firm commitment to maintaining at least 50% of Malaysia’s total land area as forested land, in line with the long-term national policy under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13) and the country’s environmental sustainability aspirations.

During the 82nd National Land Council (MTN) Meeting this morning, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that the 50% forest cover target is not merely a symbolic figure, but a foundation of Malaysia’s sustainable development strategy, biodiversity protection efforts, natural resource management, and climate resilience agenda.

The Prime Minister highlighted key challenges, including development pressure, economic demands at the state level, and the risk of biodiversity loss if forest areas continue to decline unchecked. He emphasized that a careful balance between development and environmental preservation must remain the priority for both federal and state governments.

Anwar also called for stronger cooperation between state authorities, forestry departments, and relevant stakeholders to safeguard permanent forest reserves, while expanding high-value conservation areas such as Permanent Reserved Forests (PRF) and Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA).

The 82nd MTN Meeting also discussed:

• Stronger forest monitoring mechanisms through satellite technology and integrated data systems.
• Ecosystem service payments (PES) to support states that preserve large forest areas.
• Malaysia’s role in fulfilling international commitments under the Global Biodiversity Framework 2030.

With this renewed declaration, the government sends a clear message that Malaysia remains committed to advancing a green development agenda ensuring that future generations inherit a well-preserved natural heritage.