PLANS for closer Fiji–Malaysia cooperation in forestry including a possible formal agreement have been flagged as both countries look to strengthen sustainable forest management.
Malaysian Embassy Councillor Tze Shen Ong said Malaysia welcomed Fiji’s interest in developing a Memorandum of Understanding focused on capacity building and research.
“We see this as a positive step forward and remain open to further discussions on how such cooperation can be developed in a practical and mutually beneficial way,” he said.
Speaking at the International Day of Forests 2026, Mr Ong said forests were not just environmental assets but key to livelihoods and economic growth.
“Forests are more than ecosystems. “They are sources of life, identity, and opportunity.”
He said both Fiji and Malaysia shared a common responsibility to ensure forests continued to support communities while protecting biodiversity. Mr Ong pointed to existing cooperation, including
Fijian forestry officials who had undergone training in Malaysia, as a sign of a strong and growing partnership.
He said sustainability must balance environmental protection with improving people’s lives, particularly in rural communities.
