A TOTAL of nine conservation projects from 29 applications under the Forest Conservation Certificate (FCC) have been reviewed and endorsed by an independent Advisory Committee for fundraising as the nation works to close its RM1.4 billion funding gap.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the endorsed projects aim to raise about RM30.2 million, signalling a strong pipeline of investable, impact-driven conservation initiatives ready for corporate participation and support.
He said the nine projects will include forest conservation works such as reforestation, forest delineation, river cleanup at Selangor, Pahang, Sabah and Sarawak.
“We still face a funding gap of more than RM1.4 billion to ensure our conservation efforts achieve their intended outcomes. We hope that through continued efforts, we can raise awareness and attract more companies and corporate entities.
“It is not limited to large corporations—small and medium enterprises are also encouraged to contribute, as substantial funding is still required,” he said as reported by Bernama.
The FCC launched and operationalised in June 2024, and functions as a non-market mechanism to channel funds from the private sector to support forest conservation projects in the country.
Arthur said Unlike traditional Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the FCC is performance-based and independently verified, aligning with domestic and international sustainability reporting expectations.
This gives companies the assurance required for high-quality ESG disclosures.
“With tax deductions of up to 10 per cent of aggregate income, the FCC also allows companies to achieve sustainability commitments while optimising resources,” he said.
On the Forest Carbon Offset (FCO), Arthur said it is expected to be ready by the second quarter of this year to complement the upcoming National Carbon Market Policy, generating high-integrity carbon credits from the forestry sector, by using Malaysia’s very own carbon crediting programme. – March 30, 2026
