Stocktaking Report: Implementation of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Malaysia

Transcription

1 Stocktaking Report: Implementation of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Malaysia DRAFT REPORT 28 November 2007 Draft Final Prepared by: Eco-Factor Consulting

2 Table of Contents Abbreviations and Acronyms...iii 1. Introduction Objective Scope and terminology Methodology and approach Limitations Current Implementation Status Obligations Policy Framework Legal Framework Institutional Framework Standard and Guidelines Capacity Development Activities Summary of current capacity development activities Summary of previous capacity development activities Capacity Building in Institution of Higher Education Findings Capacity Issues Linkages of NCSA with National Priority Bibliography Annex 1: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation -Department of Agriculture, Peninsular Malaysia Annex 2: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sabah Annex 3: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sarawak Annex 4: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Oil Palm Sector Annex 5: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Cocoa Sector Annex 6: Coastal Erosion Control Programme - DID Annex 7: Activities Addressing Land Degradation MARDI... 30

3 Abbreviations and Acronyms 8MP Eight Malaysia Plan ( ) 9MP Ninth Malaysia Plan ( ) CBD CEMD DANIDA DID EIA EPU ESA FRIM GEF IRBM JKR MEAs MOA MOSTE MPOB NAP3 NCSA NEDO NEP NGO NRE Convention of Biological Diversity Conservation and Environmental Management Danish International Development Assistance Department of Irrigation and Drainage Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran Environmental Impact Assessment Economic Planning Unit Environmentally Sensitive Area Forest Research Institute of Malaysia Global Environmental Facility Integrated River Basin Management Jabatan Kerja Raya Department of Works Multi-lateral Environment Agreements Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment Malaysian Palm Oil Board National Agriculture Policy III National Capacity Self-Assessment New Energy an Industrial Technology Development Organisation National Environmental Policy Non-Governmental Organisation Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment 04/12/2007 iii

4 NREB OPP3 PRF TCPD UKM UM UMS UNCCD UNDP UNEP UNFCCC UNIMAS UPM USM Natural Resources and Environmental Board 3rd Outline Perspective Plan Permanent Reserve Forest Town and Country Planning Department Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Univeristi Malaya Universiti Malaysia Sabah United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification United Nations Development Programme United Nations Environmental Programme United Nations Framework on Climate Change Convention Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Universiti Putra Malaysia Universiti Sains Malaysia 04/12/2007 iv

5 1. Introduction In January 2000, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Capacity Development Initiative, to identify priority issues and capacity development needs in a number of regions and countries. Some of the findings area as follows: There are capacity development needs at the overall systems levels; There are synergies across Conventions in terms of capacity needs; and There is a need for programmatic approaches to capacity development that are nationally driven and reflect country priorities. In May 2001, GEF approved the provision of funding for countries to undertake selfassessment capacity building needs known as National Capacity Needs Self-Assessment (NCSA), with emphasis on cross-convention synergies in capacity building activities. In Malaysia, the NCSA project started in January 2007 with funding provided by GEF and implemented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE). The primary objective is to identify priorities and needs for capacity building and enhancement to address global environmental management requirements through the fulfillment of Malaysia s international obligations and commitments, namely the three Conventions United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). One of the outputs from NCSA is the development of a stocktaking report compiling past & on-going capacity assessment or development initiatives related to the three conventions mentioned above. This report documents the results and findings for UNCCD. 1.1 Objective The objective of this stock-taking report is to undertake a situation analysis that provides the baseline research for the next steps of the NCSA process. Its objective is to ensure that the NCSA builds on local or national work related to the conventions and on past capacity development efforts. This output will form an important baseline for assessing past and ongoing effort and subsequently the elaboration of a National Capacity Action Plan. 1.2 Scope and terminology Scope The stock-taking will include the following: Current implementation status Capacity development activities Capacity issues that have emerged from this stock-taking exercise Linkages of NCSA to priority national sustainable development and environmental capacity goals and activities 1

6 This report covers UNCCD only. Coverage The stocktaking mainly covers capacity building activities carried out in governmental implementing agencies. Some activities carried out by other related stakeholders such as higher learning institutions and NGOs are also included. Information is also gathered during the stakeholder consultative sessions organised by the NCSA Project. Terminology: Land Degradation For the purpose of this stocktaking report Land Degradation refers to: - Reduction or loss of the biological or economic productivity and complexity of croplands; range or pastures; forests; and woodlands resulting from land uses or from a process or combination of processes, including processes arising from human activities and habitation patterns, such as: (i) (ii) (iii) soil erosion caused by wind and/or water; deterioration of the physical, chemical and biological or economic properties of soil; and long-term loss of natural vegetation; This definition is adapted from UNCCD. Terminology: Capacity Building The term capacity building covers activities to enhance ability of individuals, institutions and systems to make and implement decisions and perform functions in an effective and efficient and sustainable manner 1. At the individual level, capacity building refers to the process of changing attitudes and behaviours, most frequently through imparting knowledge and developing skills through training. At the institutional level, the focus is on overall organisational performance and functioning capacity, as well as the ability of an organisation to adapt to change. In addition to physical assets it may also include clarification of mission, organisation structures, responsibilities, accountabilities and reporting lines, changes in procedures and communications, and changes in deployment of human resources. At the systemic level, capacity is concerned with the creation of enabling environments ie. overall policy, economy, regulatory and accountability frameworks within which institutions and individual operate. 1 GEF Secretariat (2001) A Guide for Self-Assessment of Country Capacity Needs For Global Environmental Management. 2

7 1.3 Methodology and approach General Approach The expectations of the level of implementation of these conventions are viewed within the context of the national sustainable development goals and programmes which will lead to improvement in environmental management in global as well as national scales. This stock-taking exercise will ascertain the level of the nation s current commitment as well as expectations of the implementation of the three Conventions. Preliminary capacity gaps and needs are identified and documented. Methodology The following activities were carried out to prepare this report: 1. Review of relevant documentation pertaining to implementation of UNCCD including existing strategies, action plans, government policies related to land degradation, laws and regulations as well as other assessment reports. 2. Desktop review of previous capacity development actions or programmes to identify the objectives so that preliminary gaps in areas of capacity development may be identified for the capacity development action plan. Current and on-going capacity development actions are identified in order to avoid duplication when preparing the Capacity Development Action Plan. 3. Participation at technical working group meetings and organise stakeholder meetings (organised under the NCSA project) to obtain information, feedback, and guidance. 1.4 Limitations 1. The stocktaking covers mainly the capacity building activities carried out by implementing government agencies as well as active and motivated agencies within the government. It does not include existing activities with elements of capacity building, for instance attending meeting such as Conference of Parties (COP). 2. As land degradation covers a wide area, and many mean different things to different agencies, the stocktaking mainly included the definition which is based adapted from UNCCD. This is sometimes limited by the availability of capacity building projects in these areas. As a result it captured mainly projects certain sectors, in this case it is the agriculture and forestry sectors. 3. It is not the intention of this stocktaking report to assess the effectiveness or the outputs of capacity building projects that have been carried out. 3

8 2. Current Implementation Status Malaysia signed UNCCD on 6 October 1995 and ratified it on 25 June The objective of this Convention is to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought in countries experiencing serious drought and/or desertification, particularly in Africa, through effective action at all levels, supported by international cooperation and partnership arrangements, in the framework of an integrated approach which is consistent with Agenda 21, with a view to contributing to the achievement of sustainable development in affected areas. In UNCCD, desertification is defined as land degradation occurring in arid, semi-arid, dry sub-humid areas. It is important to note that Malaysia does not fall into this definition except for the small northern state of Perlis and the northern part of State of Kedah where a short dry period of 3 months is present. In these states, desertification is not a problem even during the short dry period as there is sufficient soil moisture to sustain the growth of most vegetation. Although desertification is not a problem to Malaysia, UNCCD was signed in supporting and following through the United Nation s framework on sustainable development in utilising land resources as well as giving political support to African countries. In the Malaysian context, the implementation of this convention covers the broad aspects of preventing and addressing land degradation. Based on the Malaysia s Third National Report on the Implementation of UNCCD, the areas affected by land degradation processes are as follows: Steepland and mountains; Peat land; Acid sulphate soils Beach ridges interspersed with swales (BRIS) soils; Mined land; and Shifting cultivation. 2.1 Obligations Under the Convention, governments undertake to adopt an integrated approach addressing the physical, biological and socio-economic aspects of the processes of desertification and drought. The obligations of countries include: (a) give due priority to combating desertification and mitigating the effects of drought, and allocate adequate resources in accordance with their circumstances and capabilities; (b) establish strategies and priorities, within the framework of sustainable development plans and/or policies, to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought; (c) address the underlying causes of desertification and pay special attention to the socioeconomic factors contributing to desertification processes; 4

9 (d) promote awareness and facilitate the participation of local populations, particularly women and youth, with the support of non-governmental organisations, in efforts to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought; (e) provide an enabling environment by strengthening, as appropriate, relevant existing legislation and, where they do not exist, enacting new laws and establishing long-term policies and action programmes. 2.2 Policy Framework A special national programme to combat land degradation is not drawn up in Malaysia because land degradation is not apparent to be widespread. However, activities related to mitigating land degradation have been carried out even before Malaysia joined the convention, especially in the forestry and agriculture sectors. Respective agencies in related sectors which are involved in land development have jointly implemented stringent mitigation measures to minimise land degradation. The mitigation measures are carried out in the form of policies, legislations, rules and guidelines. This section provides a list of relevant policies. 9 th Malaysia Plan (9MP) ( ) The 9 th Malaysia Plan (9MP) recognises the importance of preventing land degradation. Chapter 22 of 9MP states that the promotion of sustainable natural resource management practices in relation to land, water, forest, energy and marine resources, will be intensified. In addition there will be efforts to enhance protection of the environment and conservation of natural resources and contribute towards improving the quality of life. There is no mention of the term land degradation, the 9MP addresses the issues of land degradation. Chapter 22 covers land degradation issues related to managing water quality, controlling soil erosion, protecting water catchments, conservation of highlands, land use planning, managing coastal zones and other environmentally sensitive areas. Table 1 outlines the approaches to address these issues. 5

10 Table 1. 9MP Approaches and Methods Addressing Land Degradation / Soil Erosion Focus Area In terms of managing water quality soil erosion 2 Approach / Methods Siltation and erosion control will be addressed through the amendment of existing laws. Enforcement will be intensified to ensure that effluent discharge comply with environmental standards in order to maintain environmental health. In terms of managing water resource 3 Emphasis will be placed on maintaining and enhancing the ecosystem functions of river systems through the restoration and maintenance of highland catchments, wetlands, river buffers and riparian zones. Biodiversity conservation 4 Efforts will be intensified to protect critical habitats. Towards this end, existing management plans will be reviewed to further strengthen the protection of threatened flora and fauna. EIA processes will be reviewed to include assessment of impacts to ecosystems. The Highland Conservation and Management Strategy study for Sabah and Sarawak will be implemented and a National Highlands Policy will be developed. Forest Resources 5 The conservation and sustainable use of forest products, watersheds and water catchments will be emphasised to promote sustainable forest management. The Malaysian Criteria and Indicators (MC&I) system will be strengthened to consolidate efforts for sustainable forest management. Marine and Coastal Resources 6 An Integrated Coastal Zone Management Policy will be adopted to promote conservation and preservation of marine and coastal resources. The rehabilitation and improvement of the coastline will be intensified through regeneration and re-vegetation programmes. A comprehensive management plan for mangroves and coastal forests will be developed to arrest the mangrove depletion rate to ensure a continuous supply of resources as well as to mitigate the impact of coastal erosion and tsunamis. Landuse Planning 7 Appropriate methods and parameters will be developed to identify and manage environmentally sensitive areas (ESAs) to enable them to serve as buffer zones in the control of development sprawl. Third National Agriculture Policy (NAP3) ( ) Third National Agricultural Policy (NAP3) sets the strategic directions for agricultural development to the year These focus on new approaches to increase productivity and competitiveness, deepen linkages with other sectors, venture into new frontier areas as well as conserve and utilise natural resources on a sustainable basis 8. 2 Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Executive Summary NAP3 6

11 One of the policy s objectives is to conserve and utilise natural resources on a sustainable basis. One of the thrusts of this policy is: - Sustainable management and utilisation of resources will be the guiding principle in pursuing agricultural and forestry development. Rules, regulations and incentives will be strengthened to encourage environment-friendly agricultural and forestry practices and to minimise the negative impact of these activities on the environment. National Physical Plan (NPP) (2005) The NPP addresses land degradation issues in the country in its second objective to optimise utilisation of land and natural resources for sustainable development. The role of the NPP is to consolidate the categorisation and ranking of land and apply these to land use control, particularly to guiding conversion of land for urban use. Detail review of the policies show that these issues are embedded indirectly in policies that are related to conservation of biological diversity, as well as coastal ecosystems. These are as follows:- NPP 18: Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) shall be integrated in the planning and management of land use and natural resources to ensure sustainable development. NPP 19: A Central Forest Spine shall be established to form the backbone of the Environmentally Sensitive Area network. NPP 20: Sensitive coastal ecosystems shall be protected and used in a sustainable manner. NPP 21: Land development in the highlands shall be strictly controlled to safeguard human safety and environmental quality National Urbanisation Policy (2006) The National Urbanisation Policy addresses land degradation issues for urbanisation developments under the topic of conservation of biodiversity: 8. Environmentally sensitive area and prime agricultural area shall be conserved Protect and maintain ESA and prime agricultural area Establish green areas a buffer zones to limit urban development National Forestry Policy (1992) Malaysia formulated its National Forestry Policy (NFP) in 1978 and revised it in The revised NFP addresses and incorporates concerns relating to the conservation of biological diversity, sustainable utilisation of forest resources, ecological and environmental stability as well as the role of local communities in forest development, compared to the traditional approach of forest management, which focused mainly on timber production. One of the 7

12 objectives of the policy is to ensure sufficient areas for the generation of clean water, prevention of soil erosion and environmental stability 9. The cornerstone of the National Forest Policy is the establishment of Permanent Reserved Forest (PRF) to ensure sustainable forest management. The PRF could be classified into functional classes to promote sustainable forest management and taking into account the multiple role of the forest, vis a vis timber production forest under sustained yield; soil protection forest; flood control forest; water catchments; forestry sanctuary for wildlife; virgin jungle reserves; amenity forest; education forest and research forest. National Environmental Policy (NEP) (2002) In this policy, measures related to land degradation and soil erosion fall under the second green strategy Effective Management of Natural Resources and the Environment. The measures are as follows: 2.3 Land-use planning and implementation shall be based on a comprehensive assessment of critical parameters such as land suitability, the need for soil conservation, land capabilities and carrying capacities, taking due account of the current and future needs of the community. Resource mapping technique and geographical information systems which further illustrate environmentally sensitive areas such as steep or hilly land, forests and wetlands, will be used where appropriate. 2.4 Special emphasis will be given to minimising land degradation such as soil erosion and degradation due to mining. 2.3 Legal Framework In terms of legal framework, the issues related to land degradation are addressed within respective sectors eg. forestry, agriculture and plantations. The following is the list of legislations that contribute towards implementation of UNCCD in the country: Peninsular Malaysia Land Conservation Act 1960 National Land Code 1965 Environmental Quality Act (EQA) Town and Country Planning Act, 1976 National Parks Act 1980 National Forestry Act Chan Lai Har, The Impact of Present Forest Policies on Sustainable Forest Management in Malaysia in Proceedings of the Forest Policy Workshop Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia January, The EQA requires that Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to be approved for prescribed activities specified in the Environmental Quality (Prescribed Activities) (Environmental Impact Assessment) Order Soil erosion and sedimentation is addressed in EIAs. 8

13 Sabah Sabah Land Ordinance Parks Enactment 1984 Forest Enactment 1968 Conservation of Environment Enactment 1996 Sarawak State Land Code Water Ordinance National Parks Ordinance 1956 Forests Ordinance 1954 Natural Resources and Environment 1949 as amended by Natural Resources and Environment (Amendment) Ordinance 1993 State Land Code Ordinance (LO); State Land Use Ordinance (LUO) In addition to this legislations above, Sarawak also has a Land Development Policy and a Land Development Strategy 2.4 Institutional Framework National Focal Point The focal point for the implementation of UNCCD in Malaysia is the Strategic Planning and International Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry. National Councils The following are two national councils where land degradation issues can be deliberated. National Land Council National Land Council consists of a Minister as chairman, one representative from each of the States, and relevant representatives of the Federal Government. The duty of the National Land Council is to formulate from time to time, in consultation with the Federal Government, the State Governments and the National Finance Council a national policy for the promotion and control of the utilisation of land throughout the Federation for mining, agriculture, forestry or any other purpose, and for the administration of any laws relating thereto; and the Federal and State Governments shall follow the policy so formulated. Federal Government or the Government of any State may consult the National Land Council in respect of any other matter relating to the utilisation of land or in respect of any purposed legislation dealing with land or of the administration of any such law, and it shall be the duty of the National Land Council to advise that Government on any such matters. 9

14 National Forestry Council The National Forestry Council was established on 20 December 1971 by the National Land Council. The establishment of the National Forestry Council under the National Land Council provides a forum for sustainable forestry management policies to be discussed and agreed upon for implementation between the federal and state governments. Members of the National Forestry Council include Chief Ministers from all the states, ministers responsible for forestry, agriculture, environment and trade. The council is chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister 11. The following are the relevant departments and agencies working with land degradation issues. Implementing Agencies in Peninsular Malaysia Table 2. Implementing Agencies that Address Land Degradation Issues Ministry / Government Department / Agency Function / Role in addressing land degradation State Governments Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Ministry of Housing and Local Government Forestry Departments Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia Department of Director General of Land and Mines Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Department of Environment Minerals and Geo- Science Department Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD) Address issues related to forestry, sustainable forestry management, and forest reserves Provide advisory service on matters related to land development and management, including legal affairs Address issues related to rivers basin management, coastal erosion control and urban storm water management. Please refer to Annex 6 for details about coastal erosion control programme. Address soil erosion and siltation in the approval of EIAs and also the siting of industrial projects Ensuring mining and related activities are carried out safely, efficiently and systematically. Implements government policies, directives and regulations in the mining industry and geosciences. Guide the implementation of NPP and also NUP by federal and state government by providing guidelines and related process 11 Chan Lai Har, The Impact of Present Forest Policies on Sustainable Forest Management in Malaysia in Proceedings of the Forest Policy Workshop Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia January,

15 Ministry / Government Department / Agency Function / Role in addressing land degradation during planning process. (State Structure Plan, Local Plans and Special Area Plans) Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Department of Agriculture Malaysian Agriculture Research Development Institute Address issues related to agricultural activities and soil conservation. (For more details about mitigating measures please refer to Annex 1.) Research on soil erosion and sustainable land use, conservation measures and conversion of wasteland into commercial crop. (Please refer to Annex 7.) Ministry of Works Department of Works Under its Infrastructure Unit, the Slope Engineering Branch that looks at slope management. In addition to government agencies above, organisations such as the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and also Malaysian Cocoa Board are also addressing land degradation issues within their sectors. For more details about mitigating measures please refer to Annex 4 and Annex 5. Implementing Agencies in Sabah Forestry Department Department of Agriculture Land And Survey Department Natural Resource Office (For more details about mitigating measures by Forestry Department and Department of Agriculture please refer to Annex 2) Implementing Agencies in Sarawak The following are the agencies that are involved in implementing activities to mitigate land degradation in Sarawak: Ministry of Land Development Ministry of Rural Development (for activities related infrastructure development) Ministry of Modernisation of Agriculture Ministry of Urban Development and Tourism (for activities related to urban development infrastructures and industries) Ministry of Planning and Resources Management Forestry Department Policy on Forest Conservation and Sustainable Forest Management Land and Survey Department State Land Policy Ministry of Environment and Public Health 11

16 Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Enforcement of Environmental Impact Assessment. EIA approval conditions such as slope stability requirements/ study, cover crops on bare land, no earth works during monsoon season, prevention and investigation on oil spillage/ land contamination etc. These are part of the efforts indirectly carried out by the NREB in addressing the land degradation. Department of Agriculture Implementing guidelines on agricultural land development. (For more details about mitigating measures please refer to Annex 3) 2.5 Standard and Guidelines Forestry Soil erosion is included in the Malaysia Criteria and Indicators (MC&I) for Forest Management Certification Standards. Agriculture In the agriculture sector guidance on judicious use of sloping land are provided by the following guidelines: Guidelines are available such as the Guidelines for Agricultural Activities, 2003 Guidelines for Agricultural Development on Sloping Land, 2000 to provide guidance on judicious use of sloping land (classified land with slopes more than 25 0 as steep land and is not recommended for agricultural development. For land below 25 0, conservation measures are recommended including the construction of terraces, silt traps, contour ditches and proper drainage system, and planting of cover crops. The implementation of these measures has effectively controlled soil erosion, thereby minimizing land degradation which is most susceptible and prevalent on such terrain. In addition the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry (MOA) has introduced Good Agriculture Practise (GAP) certification on farms and encourage farmers to participate in the schemes. The following are examples of schemes in which land degradation issues are addressed: Skim Akreditasi Ladang Malaysia (SALM) Skim Persijilan Ladang Akuakulture Malaysia (SPLAM) It is important to note that the MOA only caters for the agri-food sector which constitutes 0.8 million ha of land compared to 6.3 million ha of arable land for the commodity and plantation crop which is under the purview of the Ministry of Plantation Industry and Commodity. Department of Environment Guidelines on the Prevention and Control of Soil Erosion and Siltation in Malaysia, Department of Environment (1996). Guidelines on Site Suitability Evaluation for non-prescribed activities. 12

17 Department of Works Checklist for Evaluating Environmental Management Plan Documents for Projects. One of the issues addressed is erosion and sedimentation MaSMA (Manual Saliran Mesra Alam) or Urban Stormwater Management Manual The Stormwater Management Manual is prepared by DID and came into effect in The goal of this Manual is to provide guidance to all regulators, planners and designers who are involved in stormwater management. It identifies a new direction for stormwater management in urban areas in Malaysia, taking into consideration the present problems facing by the nation such as flash flood, river pollution, soil erosion, development in the highlands and lowlands and so on. Stormwater management within a catchment is often undertaken by a number of organisations. The challenge is to ensure that the administration of the planning, design and maintenance of stormwater management systems is consistent across the relevant Local, State and Federal Authorities and the professions of planning, environmental and civil engineering, and landscape architecture. Guidelines in Sarawak The following are guidelines in Sarawak which address land degradation issues: National Water Quality Standard Guidelines set by State Water Resources Council Water Management Guidelines for Agricultural Development in Lowland Peat Swamps of Sarawak. Guidelines for Siting and Zoning of Industries 13

18 3. Capacity Development Activities 3.1 Summary of current capacity development activities The following table presents current projects with capacity development activities related to UNCCD. Table 3. Current Capacity Development Programmes / Projects related to UNCCD Capacity Building Project / Activity (Year) Organisation Conservation and Sustainable Use of Tropical Peat Swamp Forests (PSF) and Associated Wetland Ecosystems ( ) UNDP/GEF NRE (through FRIM) Pahang Forestry Dept Danida Study on Land Utilisation Policy of Sabah ( ) Natural Resource Office Focus Area Forestry Peatswamp Forests Land Utilisation Objectives /Outputs / Outcomes Promote conservation and sustainable use of PSF in Malaysia primarily focusing on 3 demonstration sites of South East Pahang Peat Swamp Forest, Loagan Bunut National Park and Klias Peninsula. Expected results are as follows: 1. Successful demonstration of biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource utilisation systems at 3 project sites 2. Establishment of systems and processes for the planning of biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource utilisation in PSF 3. Strengthen institutional and human technical capacities, awareness of PSF biodiversity in Malaysia. Study to develop guidelines to ensure well-planned land utilization and land management that is so critical to more organised development and contribute to a stable state development. This study will also strengthen the policy on environmental protection especially in those areas declared as protected areas in which also protect the tourism industry that is dependent on eco-tourism. 14

19 3.2 Summary of previous capacity development activities In addition to the projects / activities mentioned above the following presents a list of projects Capacity Building Project / Study Year & Lead Organisation Highlands Policy National Highland Conservation and Management Strategy Policy strategies For The Conservation and Sustainable use of the Highlands of Sabah and Sarawak Danida, UNDP, EPU EPU, Sarawak Planning Unit, Sabah EPU Integrated River Basin Mgmt / Water Resources Integrated River Basin Management in Peninsular Malaysia Danida, DID Integrated Coastal Zone Mgmt Integrated Coastal Zone Management under UPEN in Penang, Sabah and Sarawak Danida, UPEN Pulau Pinang Collaborations, Education & Research Capacity Building in Education and Research on Sustainable Land Use and Natural Resources Management in Malaysia Danida, Ministry of Education Sabah Capacity Building Project / Study Organisation Forestry In terms of training in the Forestry Sector the following were documented from inputs from Sabah Forestry Department: Training on reduced impact logging (RIL) FDRS Training Community Awareness Programme (Environmental Education and Sustainable Forestry Management community Forestry Program) Protection and enforcement (Enforcement officers trained in investigating and prosecution) Forestry Department Water Catchment / Resources Capacity Building and Human Resources Development for Integrated Catchment Planning in the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Sabah Preparation of Management plans for several river basins in Sabah in terms of implementing Water Resources Enactment Danida, DID Sabah DID 15

20 Sarawak Capacity Building Project / Study Year & Organisation Integrated Coastal Zone Management Integrated Coastal Zone Management under State EPU in Penang, Sabah and Sarawak Danida, UPEN 3.3 Capacity Building in Institution of Higher Education Institutions of higher learning in Malaysia play an important role in fulfilling Malaysia s commitments of multilateral environmental agreements including issues such as land degradation. British Petroleum Asia Pacific published in 2006 which compiled careers in biodiversity and environmental management. This information booklet provides in detail the list of courses available in local universities covering all aspects of environmental management, including courses that address the management of natural resources and the environmental. In addition to the information provided in How High Does the Hornbill Fly the following provides information of courses related to conservation of biological diversity. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) 1. School for Humanities Geography Geography has been offered as one of the subjects in the School of Humanities at Universiti Sains Malaysia since 1970, mainly focusing on three components of Geography - Human Geography, Physical Geography and Techniques in Geography. Human Geography further branches out into subjects to encompass Economic and Development Geography, Urban Geography, Population Geography, Agricultural and Rural Geography, Geographic Thought, and Regional Planning. Physical Geography further branches into Weather and Climate, Hydrology, Geomorphology and Biogeography. Techniques in geographical tools include Quantitative Methods and Spatial Analysis, Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing. 2. School of Humanities Geoinformatic Unit Studies of various related applications include EIA, land management, natural resources management, urban and regional planning, ecology and demography, trade and market analysis, transportation, forestry, agriculture, property tax, real estate management and social facilities planning and provision. 3. School of Social Sciences Planning and Development Management (Perancangan dan Pengurusan Pembangunan) An integrated discipline, the Planning and Development Management study aims to produce graduates with in-depth understanding theories and issues related to global development covering, among others, international industry and development, 16

21 education and human resource development, natural resources management, land development and administration. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) 4. Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities - Social, Development and Environment Studies Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) 5. School of Sustainable Agriculture Horticulture and Landscape Program This Program is related to the art and science of plant propagation, production, ornamental plants and conservation in order to improve and brighten the human environment. Emphasis is given on the production of fruits, vegetables and flowers. It is to create, conserve and promote a congenial physical and spiritual environment to humans. Other issues dealt with are related to natural products and environmental conservation such as the mangrove ecosystem and domestic plants. This program also emphasizes on sustainable organic farming and urban development. 6. School of Science and Technology Environmental Science This programme provides students with a strong foundation on the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the environment. A multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing the relationship of man and the environment will be adopted. Monash University Malaysia 7. School of Arts and Sciences - Bachelor of Science (Environmental Management) The objectives of the course are to provide students with a knowledge of a broad spectrum of resource management issues and strategies used to manage and sustain the Earth s natural resources, including scientific principles, concepts and skills in areas of science relevant to resource management, such as biology, environmental chemistry, ecology, microbiology, statistics, environmental health, marine and freshwater biology and environmental management. 17

22 3.4 Findings Based on review of the information from this chapter, as well as feedback from the Consultative Workshop held in Sarawak (22-23 October) and Sabah (1-2 November), the following are observed: 1. In terms of implementation of UNCCD in Malaysia the following were discussed at the technical working group: o As Malaysia do not have deserts, questions are raised regarding the relevant of implementing UNCCD in Malaysia, and how it is to be implemented. o Within the context of implementation of UNCCD, there is no clear definition of land degradation 2. Despite the lack of a common definition of what land degradation is within the context of implementation of CCD, there are framework and guidance from existing policies on development such as 9MP, NAP3, NPP, NUP, NEP which address issues generally related to land degradation. 3. Land degradation issues have been addressed in many stages of development. This includes land-use planning, town and country planning, and also land-use best practices in various sectors (forestry, agriculture, mining, plantation, construction of roads, construction of buildings, construction of infrastructure, soil conservation, soil rehabilitation, etc.) 4. There is no dedicated policy or national programme to address the issue of land degradation. 5. Some of the issues related to land degradation are also addressed in the implementation of CBD and also UNFCCC. 6. No noticeable externally funded capacities building projects, specifically on land degradation, are recorded. It is not considered as a threat and therefore it is given low priority. 18

23 4. Capacity Issues This chapter presents a preliminary account of capacity issues based on stock-taking exercise. Capacity Issues The relevance of implementation of UNCCD in the Malaysia is not clear. There is no definition of land degradation in the Malaysian context for the implementation of CCD There is dedicated programme or national action plan to address land degradation Malaysia in a holistic manner. Land degradation issues are addressed at various implementing agencies at all levels of the government Because there is no definition for land degradation, and the types of activities that is covered, there are no clear roles for agencies in addressing relevant aspects of land degradation Systemic Institutional Individual The preliminary capacity issues identified during this stage are mainly systemic in nature. As there is no clearly expressed position and direction in terms of implementation of UNCCD, it is difficult to continue self-assessment of the implementation of UNCCD. This is because there is no point of reference for implementation of UNCCD, in terms of land degradation. Therefore it is rather difficult to assess the implementation gaps. 19

24 5. Linkages of NCSA with National Priority The NCSA Process provides a platform to discuss the priority of implementing UNCCD in the country. It is expected to complement and build upon current and existing activities, programmes and projects including those that are inter-related to implementation of UNCBD and UNFCCC. This process is expected to address capacity gaps based upon the direction taken by Malaysia. 20

25 Bibliography Chan Lai Har (2002) The Impact of Present Forest Policies on Sustainable Forest Management in Malaysia in Proceedings of the Forest Policy Workshop Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia January, Economic Planning Unit (2006) Ninth Malaysia Plan ( ). Percetakan Nasional Malaysia Berhad. Federal Department of Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, Ministry of Housing and Local Government (2005) National Physical Plan Federal Department of Town and Country Planning Peninsular Malaysia, Ministry of Housing and Local Government (2006) National Urbanisation Policy GEF Secretariat (2001) A Guide for Self-Assessment of Country Capacity Needs For Global Environmental Management. Kementerian Pertanian Malaysia (1999) Dasar Pertanian Negara Ketiga ( ) or Third National Agricultural Policy ( ) Strategic Planning and International Division, Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Malaysia and Soil Resource Management and Conservation Division, Department of Agriculture Malaysia, Input for National Reporting to the CSD-16 on Desertification Thematic Issue 21

26 Annex 1: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Department of Agriculture, Peninsular Malaysia In terms of Soil and Water Conservation Activities the following activities have been carried out: Collection and Preparation of Agriculture Land Information o Soil Mapping o Land Use Mapping o Erosion Risk Mapping Preplanning Studies o Study of Soil Erosion for different soil types, crop groups and terrain classes o Preparation of Development Plan for Agriculture on Sloping Land o Study on Conservation Management of Environmentally Sensitive Areas Soil Conservation Extension Activities o Demonstration plot showing conservation structures and agronomic practices o Training and extension programmes in hill land agricultures guidelines for various crop groups and slopes covering: Land clearing Construction of soil conservation structures Agronomic practices to combat erosion o Good agricultural practices o Issuance of Skim Akreditasi Ladang Malaysia (SALM) certificates to farms that fulfilled the standards requirement for good agriculture practice scheme. 22

27 Annex 2: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sabah (Source: Stakeholder Consultative Workshop 1-2 Nov 2007) Mitigation Activities by Forestry Department: Implementation of Sustainable Forest Management Reforestation of shifting cultivation areas. Community forestry projects. Community Forestry Project (CFP) being implemented. Conservation areas, e.g. High Conservation Value Forests identified. Restoration of forest reserves affected by illegal cultivation of agricultural crops (0ngoing Forest Restoration programme in areas such as Ulu Segama Malua, Merisuli, Timimmbang and Ulu Kalumpang Forest Reserves) Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) implementation of forest reserves. About 2.0 million ha of Commercial Forest Reserves managed under long term Sustainable Forest Management License Agreements. Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) being applied Restoration of forest reserves affected by fire, including the forest fire program Forest Fire Protection, 6 Fire Towers have been established at Tawau, Sandakan, Kimanis, Telupid, Gunung Emas and Sook. In addition 6 Fire Fighting Equipment Stores have been established Mangrove restoration/ replanting project (as for September 2007, 198 ha of degraded mangrove forests area have been replanted) Restoration of riparian Soil conservation by other agencies (e.g. Agriculture Dept., JKR) Mitigation Approaches by Department of Agriculture: Implementation of sound policies that could only come about with an extensive soil database and soil information system. Implemented through: Land Application Process Approval of Development Plan (inherent condition on land title) that emphasize on good agriculture practice Change of Land Title Condition Rehabilitation of degraded areas e.g. Kundasang Highland Input by the Department of Agriculture in the process of land alienation in terms of the following: technical advice on the best use of land processes and implement the Land Development process best practice in terms of Zoning Concept for a balanced Agriculture Development Issues: Broad, cross-cutting and involve many players No single agency over-seeing matters in an integrated and coordinated manner Many activities and initiatives issue of linkages 23

28 High technical & scientific inputs & requirements Lack of technical/scientific capabilities in certain fields. Costly exercise Conservation vs. Social Responsibility Striking the balance Monitoring and Assessing achievements and Issue of adequacy Possible Ways of Moving Forward: Strengthening of existing policy, laws & associated regulatory framework Reinforcement of implementing agencies, including the possibility of establishing & strengthening of a Coordination Unit Establishing the mechanism for coordination Developing the methodology system of monitoring, assessing & reporting Making available pool of expertise/experts through training & recruitment Developing sustainable financing mechanism, eg. Carbon, Bio-D credits, etc Enhancing awareness programs to increase participation at all levels/ segments of society Promoting Partnership and Cooperation 24

29 Annex 3: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sarawak (Source: Stakeholder Consultative Workshop Oct 2007) Mitigation measures: Forestry Activities Forest plantation - Advocate enrichment planting rather than clear felling and replanting - Planting on contours - Establish cover crop in tandem with clearing - Mosaic pattern clearing & subsequent harvesting Forest harvesting - Conservation of river buffer - Steep areas not to be harvested: heli-logging or low impact logging to be adopted - Conserve low stand blocks - Reduce ground disturbance - SFM (environmentally friendly, socially acceptable, economically viable) & certification Mitigation measures: Agriculture Activities Agricultural plantations on Peatland - Water management for sago and oil palm - Drainability study to assess viability of the area - Controlled burning avoid excessive burning of peat Agricultural plantations on Mangrove - Control drainage avoid oxidation (oxidation of pyrite in soil which is highly acidic) - River buffer conserve to ensure survival of adjacent remaining mangrove - Maximize conservation e.g. National Park Agricultural plantations Mineral soils - Terracing - Contouring - Cover crop- leguminous crop (ability to fix nitrogen) - Areas of more than 25 degrees to be left undeveloped - Immediate planting after clearing - Use of organic fertilizers 25

30 Annex 4: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Oil Palm Sector (source: Malaysian Palm Oil Board) Strategies: Maintaining soil organic matter: - Zero burning - Utilisation of oil palm waste materials: oil palm biomass, EFB, fronds etc. - Planting legume cover crop Soil and water conservation: - Terracing for land > 8 o - No oil palm planting for land > 25 o - No oil palm planting for land > 300 m altitude - Using water trapping techniques in oil palm plantation such as silt pit, frond pile row, cover crops, terraces etc. Marginal soil: - Selective in marginal land development for oil palm eg. Peat not more than 3 m depth and hemic or sapric in nature - Proper drainage management for peat, acid sulphate soil, saline soil etc. - Practice soil and water conservation techniques for hilly and sloping land Management - Use balance and sufficient fertilizer for oil palm by using foliar and soil analysis data - Use P&D chemicals judiciously - Practice sustainable oil palm planting by following the principles and criteria stated in the RSPO and OPGAP Land Clearing - Soil erosion control guidelines for slope land, avoided step terrain, zero burning policy,cover crop policy Cultivation Practices - Proper pruned frond arrangement, nutrient recycling of palm biomass, silt pit to collect eroded soil and to harvest rain - Natural cover crop policy, to keep soft weeds for maintaining moisture,... Farm Drainage Designs and Practices - Proper field drain to avoid soil erosion across the field. - Proper field drain to avoid over drain (keep high water level) Fertilizer Application - Balanced nutrient input, site specific fertilizer application, Timing and method of application, nutrient recycling from oil palm biomass. 26