The National Policy on Biological Diversity 2016-2025 sets a strong foundation for preventing species extinction by 2025, improving conservation status, and ensuring long-term protection. Key actions include creating a National Red Data list for plants and animals aligned with IUCN standards, implementing in-situ and ex-situ conservation measures, and establishing a network of botanical gardens and gene banks for species preservation. At Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), these principles are actively integrated into conservation practices. UKM commitment to biodiversity protection is reflected in systematic monitoring efforts that align with The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and national policies, focusing on the health and threats to Red Data-listed species and others at risk. Through collaborative efforts with government and NGOs, and educational programs like those at the Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS), UKM ensures a robust approach to biodiversity conservation that supports research, public awareness, and long-term ecological stewardship.

1. National Policy on Biological Diversity 2016-2025

The policy outlined in these documents aims to prevent the extinction of known threatened species by 2025, improve their conservation status, and ensure sustained protection. Key actions include:

1. Conservation Assessments (Action 9.1): Developing a comprehensive National Red Data list for plant and animal species to prioritize conservation actions. This involves conducting regular assessments, updating the list, and aligning with IUCN Red Data Book listings for globally recognized standards. Monitoring the status of species in the Red Data list helps guide conservation efforts and inform legislative protections.
2. Protection of Threatened Species (Action 9.2): Implementing measures to protect species at risk of extinction due to human activities and environmental changes. Conservation efforts include in-situ (within natural habitats) and ex-situ (outside natural habitats) strategies, supported by laws, existing conservation programs, and the National Plant Conservation Strategy.
3. Ex-Situ Conservation Strategy (Action 9.3): Establishing a network of botanical gardens, nurseries, and gene banks for species preservation outside natural habitats. This includes ensuring that zoos, wildlife parks, and research institutions meet high conservation standards for threatened species, with a focus on cooperation across national and international levels.

At UKM, monitoring efforts align with IUCN standards and national policies, ensuring that species on the Red Data list and others identified as at-risk are actively managed through regular assessments. UKM commitment to conservation includes systematic tracking of species’ health and threats, collaborating with government and NGOs to enhance conservation outcomes, and ensuring that biodiversity conservation is integrated into research, education, and community outreach programs.

2. The Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS) at UKM

The Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS) at UKM stands as a unique institution in Southeast Asia, dedicated to advancing the study of insect systematics and biodiversity. Established in 1993 in alignment with the Rio Declaration’s Agenda 21, CIS is recognized as one of UKM Centres of Excellence. The centre houses an impressive collection of over 100,000 insect specimens, including more than 120 type specimens, making it an invaluable resource for researchers and conservationists worldwide. CIS also publishes SERANGGA, an internationally circulated journal that disseminates research findings on insect systematics and diversity, with a focus on Southeast Asia and beyond. Through its extensive collection and research publications, CIS contributes significantly to the understanding and preservation of insect biodiversity, aligning with global conservation goals and promoting ecological knowledge.

Roles and Objectives of the Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS) at UKM:

1. Provide Essential Infrastructure: Develop and maintain specialized facilities for the preservation and management of an extensive arthropod collection, ensuring the long-term integrity of these valuable specimens.
2. Serve as a Reference Centre: Establish CIS as the primary reference hub for taxonomic and systematic studies related to Malaysia’s entomological heritage, supporting scientific research and conservation efforts.
3. Conduct National Surveys and Inventories: Carry out comprehensive surveys and inventories of Malaysia’s insect fauna, contributing to a detailed record of the country’s biodiversity.
4. Achieve Regional and Global Recognition: Position CIS as a leading institution in insect systematics, recognized both regionally and internationally for its expertise and contributions to entomology.
5. Document and Disseminate Information: Compile and share detailed information on the insect diversity of Malaysia and surrounding regions, making it accessible for research, conservation, and public awareness.
6. Become the National Centre for Insect Biodiversity Data: Act as the official repository and distributor of insect biodiversity data for Malaysia, supporting national and international biodiversity initiatives.
7. Train Future Entomologists: Provide training and resources for biologists and entomologists with a focus on insect systematics, fostering the next generation of experts in the field.
8. Collaborate with Local and International Researchers: Engage in collaborative research with entomologists from Malaysia and around the world, promoting knowledge exchange and advancing the study of insect biodiversity globally.

Through these roles and objectives, CIS aims to enhance the understanding, preservation, and appreciation of insect diversity, supporting both national and global conservation goals and reinforcing Malaysia’s position in the field of entomology.