The Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve in Pahang as well as the Bako and Bukit Lambir National Parks in Sarawak have been recognised as Asean Heritage Parks (AHPs), says the natural resources and environmental sustainability ministry.
The ministry said the decision to recognise the three sites as AHPs was made unanimously at the Asean Ministerial Meeting on the Environment in Langkawi on Wednesday.
In a statement today, the ministry congratulated the two state governments for their achievement, which it also said reflects the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, particularly the wildlife and national parks department and the Sarawak Forestry Corporation.
“This achievement is especially significant as it coincides with Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship in 2025, highlighting the nation’s leadership in advancing the regional biodiversity agenda,” it said.
Malaysia’s list of AHPs includes Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, Kinabalu Park in Sabah, Taman Negara spanning Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu, and Johor’s Endau Rompin National Park.
The ministry also said Malaysia is confident that it will enhance its international standing, strengthen Asean cooperation on biodiversity, and ensure the region’s natural heritage remains protected for future generations.
The Langkawi meeting, which was chaired by acting minister Johari Ghani, also recognised three new sites in Vietnam as AHPs – Xuan Thuy National Park, Pu Mat National Park, and Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve.
“The AHP initiative underscores Asean’s collective effort to conserve biodiversity, protect unique ecosystems, and safeguard the region’s natural heritage.
“For Malaysia, this milestone not only strengthens national conservation efforts but also deepens regional cooperation in technical collaboration, research, and the sharing of best practices,” the ministry said.
