Leong (right) accepted the award on behalf of Sime Darby Property.

PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Property Bhd received a Silver award for its urban biodiversity efforts with Elmina Rainforest Knowledge Centre (ERKC) at the 2024 FIABCI World Prix d'Excellence Awards, Singapore.

“ERKC demonstrates our dedication to preserving, regenerating, and strengthening healthy ecosystems in all our townships and developments. The purpose of ERKC includes fostering urban biodiversity through concerted conservation action, research, and development,” Sime Darby Property Bhd group managing director Datuk Azmir Merican said.

Located in the City of Elmina, ERKC is a centre for forestry research, conservation, environmental education and other sustainable initiatives. The development was launched in October 2020 in partnership with the Tropical  Rainforest Conservation and Research Centre and spans 1.09 acres. 

The project has a cultivation of 187 plant species, with 35,000 seedlings and 10,000 tree saplings, many of which have been taken to other areas of Selangor for conservation efforts. Sime Darby reported that over a thousand have been planted near the Klang Gates Dam, Klang River. 

This effort contributes to Sime Darby Property’s goal of planting 50,000 trees from the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List by 2030. 

The project facilitates community engagement and education with various programmes that promote awareness of environmental issues and active participation in conservation efforts. 

“Urban biodiversity goes beyond just flora and fauna; it's about the health of our environment and its impact on all forms of life. This award underscores our efforts in connecting communities and nature to ultimately enhance people’s lives and well-being and the planet's overall health,” Azmir said.

Sime Darby Property town development chief operating officer Appollo Leong accepted the award.

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