MPOGCF To Host Biodiversity Forum On Human-Wildlife Coexistence

KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF) will organise the Biodiversity Forum 2026 (Bio-D Forum 2026) on June 3 and 4 at The Everly, Putrajaya, to promote collaboration in addressing human-wildlife conflicts within oil palm plantation landscapes.

MPOGCF said the biennial forum, co-organised with the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), will be held under the theme ‘Coexistence in Malaysian Oil Palm Plantation Landscapes’.

Its general manager Hairulazim Mahmud said the forum serves as an important platform for biodiversity conservation efforts and strategic collaboration aimed at balancing economic development with environmental conservation.

“Through this forum, MPOGCF hopes more stakeholders will recognise the importance of coexistence, not only for biodiversity conservation but also for supporting income stability and the long-term sustainability of plantation operations,” he said in a statement.

The forum aims to strengthen understanding, dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, including industry players, policymakers, researchers, conservation experts, government agencies and non-governmental organisations.

A total of 500 participants have confirmed their attendance, either physically or virtually, to discuss human-wildlife coexistence, challenges in implementing coexistence initiatives, landscape connectivity and biodiversity sustainability management.

According to MPOGCF, the forum reflects its commitment to advancing the sustainability agenda of Malaysia's palm oil industry through science-based approaches, multi-stakeholder collaboration and conservation initiatives that benefit both the environment and local communities.

Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Mohamad, a Fellow of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), will deliver the keynote address on the first day of the forum, while Prestige Group trade advisor Muhammad Al-Shafieq Mustafah will deliver the keynote address on the second day.

The forum will feature 20 speakers from academia, government agencies, conservation organisations and the plantation industry. In addition, 30 project posters related to the forum's theme and topics will be exhibited and evaluated throughout the event.

-- BERNAMA