KUALA NERUS, 29 June 2025 – Nearly 100 coastal protective trees, including species such as Casuarina (rhu), Terminalia catappa (ketapang), and Vitex trifolia (lagundi laut), were successfully planted along the coastline of Kampung Tanjung Gelam, Mengabang Telipot, as part of a strategic collaboration between Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), PLANMalaysia, and Geng Plastik Hijau (GPI).

This programme forms part of an environmental conservation initiative aimed at reducing the impacts of coastal erosion caused by climate change and creating a natural buffer zone to protect the shoreline.

The project’s leader, Associate Professor Dr. Effi Helmy Ariffin, said the initiative represents a sustainable, nature-based approach that provides long-term benefits to the local community.

Dr. Effi, who is also a coastal erosion expert, explained that selecting suitable tree species is crucial in mitigating long-term effects.

“The choice of rhu, ketapang, and lagundi laut trees is based on their natural ability to withstand monsoon winds, stabilize sandy soil, and serve as habitat for various coastal fauna. Notably, lagundi also holds high medicinal value, including anti-cancer properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and wound-healing abilities. It is also used as a natural dye and flavouring in traditional delicacies and nasi kerabu,” he said.

Also participating in the programme were local villagers, UMT students, and environmental volunteers.

In addition to the tree-planting activity, also held was an awareness session on the importance of coastal ecosystems, targeting the local community as frontliners in natural resource conservation.

Also present at the event were representatives from PLANMalaysia, officials from related government agencies, as well as academics and conservation activists.

The initiative aligns with the Greening Malaysia Agenda and the National Physical Development Plan (NPDP), which emphasizes climate change adaptation and sustainable coastal zone management.

The programme held in conjunction with World Oceans Week 2025 (WOW25), which took place during the final week of June, promoted love for the environment  and strengthened sustainable values among the public.

Published by:

Corporate Communications Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu