@ green | May-June. 2026

In Malaysia, the Pahang Peatland Restoration Project( PPRP), as highlighted by Dr Jane Koh, managing director of Southridge Malaysia and an oversight committee member of PPRP, exemplifies how this mechanism can safeguard critical habitats and support policies that promote sustained peatland restoration.

Covering more than 96,000 hectares of peat swamp forest, the project represents one of the largest peatland restoration initiatives in Peninsular Malaysia. Its primary objectives include restoring degraded peatlands, enhancing biodiversity, reducing forest fire risk, and improving overall ecosystem health.

By utilising verified carbon credits, the project secures a sustainable funding mechanism to support ongoing conservation efforts.

Unlike traditional conservation projects that depend on grants or public funding, the PPRP employs a self-sustaining model. Revenue generated from carbon credit sales is reinvested into restoration activities, ensuring conservation efforts persist beyond initial implementation.

This model provides greater assurance for long-term environmental management and underscores the need for policies that actively support and expand such funding mechanisms.

The initiative is pursuing

DR JANE KOH certification under internationally recognised frameworks, such as the Verra Verified Carbon Standard( VCS) and the Climate, Community and Biodiversity( CCB) Standards.

These certifications will verify that the carbon credits meet global benchmarks for environmental quality and recognise the project ' s broader social and ecological benefits. This strengthens the rationale for policies that endorse credible, high-integrity credits and promote broader adoption.

Over a projected 60-year period, the project is anticipated to prevent and remove approximately 3.1 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year. Additionally, peatland restoration enhances water regulation, preserves wildlife

INVESTING IN NATURE: Peatland restoration transforms fragile ecosystems into long-term climate assets.

habitats, and mitigates the risk of haze-inducing fires in the region.

Importantly, the project illustrates a shift in the funding paradigm for environmental protection. By framing healthy ecosystems as valuable assets capable of attracting investment and delivering measurable climate outcomes, this approach supports policies that prioritise conservation as an investable objective.

The project demonstrates the compatibility of environmental restoration and economic sustainability. With credible standards and sustained commitment, conservation emerges as an investment that benefits nature, communities, and future generations, warranting policy support to scale such initiatives.

FOREST City has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable urban development and long-term environmental management.

The company announced this recently in its updated 2026 Environmental, Social, and Governance( ESG) milestone.

This update signals a shift towards a more resilient, future-focused growth model as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone( JS- SEZ) investment master plan nears completion.

The revised ESG framework introduces a stronger environmental mandate. Forest City is intensifying efforts to reduce carbon intensity, optimise energy use, and implement low-impact

FOREST CITY: A green and sustainable urban development. urban infrastructure across its developments.

This approach aligns with the broader trend in urban development, where ecological accountability is essential to economic relevance, long-term value, and global competitiveness.

The updated framework also emphasises social equity and robust governance. Forest City has introduced initiatives to enhance community well-being, promote inclusive urban environments, and strengthen transparent governance.

These pillars highlight that sustainable cities are defined by both their infrastructure and the quality of life they provide for residents.

This announcement comes as the Johor- Singapore Special Economic Zone( JS-SEZ) nears full implementation. The initiative is expected to strengthen economic cooperation between Johor and Singapore, attract crossborder investment, and drive growth across green technology, advanced manufacturing, and digital innovation.

As a flagship regional development, Forest City is well-positioned to capitalise on these opportunities while upholding its commitment to sustainable growth and long-term value.

Industry experts note that developments with strong ESG credentials are increasingly attractive to investors. Companies and financial institutions are prioritising sustainability, transparency, and accountability in their investment decisions.

By strengthening its ESG roadmap, Forest City is enhancing its competitiveness, demonstrating readiness to meet evolving market expectations, and supporting investor value.

Looking ahead, Forest City ' s updated 2026 ESG milestones demonstrate a long-term commitment to building a greener, smarter, and more liveable city that balances economic growth with environmental responsibility.

As Malaysia advances its sustainability agenda, Forest City aims to help shape the next generation of eco-friendly urban communities and deliver lasting value. – @ green

BUILDING TOMORROW: Forest City continues to redefine sustainable urban development with a strong focus on environmental responsibility and innovation.