The 2nd International Conference on Tropical Science (TropSc™️ 2024), jointly organized by the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) with support from the Sarawak State Government, was held from 16 to 17 October 2024 in Kuching, Sarawak. The two-day event provided a platform for scientific dialogue on pressing tropical issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, and habitat degradation. In his speech during the gala dinner, the Premier of Sarawak, YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, welcomed scientists to collaborate with the state in developing innovative environmental conservation policies, while the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, YB Chang Lih Kang, reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to research, innovation, and sustainable partnerships. The conference, which focused on four key themes—Tropical Agriculture, Tropical Architecture and Engineering, Tropical Medicine, and Tropical Natural Resources—attracted approximately 300 participants from 20 countries, including the United Kingdom, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, and Timor-Leste.

The Tree and Leaf Species Identification Course for Sarawak’s Native Forests was organized by the Sarawak Forest Department through its Forest Restoration and Industrial Forestry Division from 7 to 11 October 2024 at Lambir National Park, Miri. The course arrangements were coordinated by the secretariat from RIFD Headquarters and the Miri Regional Forest Office. The event was officiated by Ms. Zarina binti Haji Shebli, Head of the Forest Restoration and Industrial Forestry Division, on 7 October 2024, and was attended by the Internal Audit Team from the Sarawak Premier’s Department led by Mr. Mohamad Muzhafar, as well as the Warden of Lambir National Park, Ms. Shirly Naning. The five-day course was conducted by Dr. Qammil @ Meekiong from UNIMAS, assisted by Mr. Pipon from the Sarawak Forest Department. A total of 35 participants, including representatives from various Sarawak Regional Forest Offices, took part in the program. The main objective of the course was to provide both theoretical and hands-on learning experiences focusing on dendrology and taxonomy for the identification of tree and leaf species, including recognizing wild seedlings and field sampling. The course also featured group discussions and presentations to enhance participants’ understanding and practical skills.