The Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) marked SBC Biodiversity Day 2026 on 23 May 2026 at KM20 Jalan Borneo Heights, Semenggoh, in conjunction with the International Day for Biological Diversity. The annual event drew government representatives, community leaders, researchers, students, exhibitors and members of the public, reflecting growing interest in Sarawak’s biodiversity and its expanding role in innovation, education and sustainable economic development.
Guided by this year’s international theme, “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” the programme reflected Sarawak’s commitment to turning biodiversity conservation into practical outcomes through research, commercialisation, community participation and science outreach. It also echoed the State’s broader aspiration to build a high-income, innovation-led economy while safeguarding environmental sustainability.
The event was officiated by YB Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Sarawak who was represented by Madam Margarita Naming, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Biodiversity Centre. In his officiating address, the Minister emphasised that biodiversity and biotechnology are strategic enablers of Sarawak’s transition towards a high-income, innovation-driven economy, and highlighted the importance of turning traditional knowledge into commercially ready innovations through scientific validation, equitable benefit sharing and strong community participation.
A key highlight of this year’s programme was the presentation of the renewed MadhuSara® Benefit Sharing Agreement (BSA) to the participating Melanau communities of Kampung Jemoreng Hulu, Matu, Mukah, Kampung Jemoreng Hilir, Matu, Mukah, and Kampung Penibong, Pulau Bruit. The agreement marked yet another significant step in Sarawak’s Access and Benefit Sharing efforts, showing how traditional knowledge, scientific validation and commercial innovation can come together to deliver tangible socio-economic benefits to local communities. New prototypes derived from
Sekiu oil were also featured, further demonstrating the commercial promise of biodiversity-based resources.
Visitors also had the opportunity to explore exhibition booths and science displays by participating agencies and organisations, including the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Department of Forests, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation, Sarawak Forestry Corporation, Agriculture Research Centre, Sarawak Science Centre, BioVerde Technologies Sdn. Bhd., Wildlife Conservation Society, Malaysian Nature Society and Sarawak Eco Warriors, as well as student showcases from Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School (12th Mile).
