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(Draft) NCSA Stocktaking Report on UNCCD – Malaysia

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


Table of Contents

Abbreviations and Acronyms ............................................................................................ iii

1. Introduction................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Objective ................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Scope and terminology ............................................................................................. 1

1.3 Methodology and approach....................................................................................... 3

1.4 Limitations ................................................................................................................ 3

2. Current Implementation Status ..................................................................................... 4

2.1 Obligations................................................................................................................ 4

2.2 Policy Framework..................................................................................................... 5

2.3 Legal Framework ...................................................................................................... 8

2.4 Institutional Framework............................................................................................ 9

2.5 Standard and Guidelines ......................................................................................... 12

3. Capacity Development Activities ................................................................................. 14

3.1 Summary of current capacity development activities............................................. 14

3.2 Summary of previous capacity development activities .......................................... 15

3.3 Capacity Building in Institution of Higher Education ............................................ 16

3.4 Findings................................................................................................................... 18

4. Capacity Issues............................................................................................................ 19

5. Linkages of NCSA with National Priority.................................................................. 20

Bibliography ..................................................................................................................... 21

Annex 1: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation -Department of Agriculture, Peninsular

Malaysia............................................................................................................................ 22

Annex 2: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sabah ............................................. 23

Annex 3: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sarawak ......................................... 25

Annex 4: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Oil Palm Sector.............................. 26

Annex 5: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Cocoa Sector.................................. 27

Annex 6: Coastal Erosion Control Programme - DID ...................................................... 29

Annex 7: Activities Addressing Land Degradation – MARDI......................................... 30


04/12/2007 iii

Abbreviations and Acronyms

8MP Eight Malaysia Plan (2001-2005)

9MP Ninth Malaysia Plan (2006-2010)

CBD Convention of Biological Diversity

CEMD Conservation and Environmental Management

DANIDA Danish International Development Assistance

DID

Department of Irrigation and Drainage

Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EPU Economic Planning Unit

ESA Environmentally Sensitive Area

FRIM Forest Research Institute of Malaysia

GEF Global Environmental Facility

IRBM Integrated River Basin Management

JKR

Jabatan Kerja Raya

Department of Works

MEAs Multi-lateral Environment Agreements

MOA Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-based Industries

MOSTE Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment

MPOB Malaysian Palm Oil Board

NAP3 National Agriculture Policy III

NCSA National Capacity Self-Assessment

NEDO New Energy an Industrial Technology Development Organisation

NEP National Environmental Policy

NGO Non-Governmental Organisation

NRE Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment


04/12/2007 iv

NREB Natural Resources and Environmental Board

OPP3 3rd Outline Perspective Plan

PRF Permanent Reserve Forest

TCPD Town and Country Planning Department

UKM Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

UM Univeristi Malaya

UMS Universiti Malaysia Sabah

UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme

UNFCCC United Nations Framework on Climate Change Convention

UNIMAS Universiti Malaysia Sarawak

UPM Universiti Putra Malaysia

USM Universiti Sains Malaysia


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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 self-

assessment 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 on-

going 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


2

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) soil erosion caused by wind and/or water;

(ii) deterioration of the physical, chemical and biological or economic

properties of soil; and

(iii) 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.


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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.


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2. Current Implementation Status

Malaysia signed UNCCD on 6 October 1995 and ratified it on 25 June 1997.

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 socio-

economic factors contributing to desertification processes;


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(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.

9th

Malaysia Plan (9MP) (2006-2010)

The 9th

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.


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Table 1. 9MP – Approaches and Methods Addressing Land Degradation / Soil Erosion

Focus Area Approach / Methods

In terms of managing water quality soil erosion

2

– 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 Resources5

– 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 Planning7 – 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) (1998-2010)

Third National Agricultural Policy (NAP3) sets the strategic directions for agricultural

development to the year 2010. 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 basis8.

2 Chapter 22.22

3 Chapter 22.29

4 Chapter 22.30

5 Chapter 22.31

6 Chapter 22.33 7 Chapter 22.27

8 Executive Summary NAP3


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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 1992. 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


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objectives of the policy is to ensure sufficient areas for the generation of clean water,

prevention of soil erosion and environmental stability9.

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) 197410

• Town and Country Planning Act, 1976

• National Parks Act 1980

• National Forestry Act 1984

9 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 22-24 January, 2002. 10 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 1987.

Soil erosion and sedimentation is addressed in EIAs.


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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.


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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 Minister11

.

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 Forestry Departments

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

Forestry Department of Peninsular Malaysia

Address issues related to forestry, sustainable forestry management, and forest reserves

Department of Director General of Land and Mines

Provide advisory service on matters related to land development and management, including legal affairs

Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID)

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.

Department of Environment

Address soil erosion and siltation in the approval of EIAs and also the siting of industrial projects

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

Minerals and Geo-Science Department

Ensuring mining and related activities are carried out safely, efficiently and systematically. Implements government policies, directives and regulations in the mining industry and geosciences.

Ministry of Housing and Local Government

Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD)

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 22-24 January, 2002.


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Ministry / Government Department / Agency Function / Role in addressing land degradation

during planning process. (State Structure

Plan, Local Plans and Special Area Plans)

Department of Agriculture Address issues related to agricultural activities and soil conservation. (For more details about mitigating measures please refer to Annex 1.)

Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry

Malaysian Agriculture Research Development Institute

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


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– 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 250 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.


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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 2001. 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


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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

Focus Area Objectives /Outputs / Outcomes

Conservation and Sustainable Use of Tropical Peat Swamp Forests (PSF) and Associated Wetland Ecosystems

(2002 – 2007)

UNDP/GEF

NRE (through FRIM)

Pahang Forestry Dept

Danida

Forestry

Peatswamp Forests

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 on Land Utilisation Policy of Sabah

(2007-2008)

Natural Resource Office

Land Utilisation

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”.


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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 Danida, UNDP, EPU

Policy strategies For The Conservation and Sustainable use of the Highlands of Sabah and Sarawak

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

Danida, DID Sabah

Preparation of Management plans for several river basins in Sabah in terms of implementing Water Resources Enactment

DID


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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,


17

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.


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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.


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4. Capacity Issues This chapter presents a preliminary account of capacity issues based on stock-taking exercise.

Capacity Issues Systemic Institutional Individual

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

√

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.


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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.


21

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 22-24 January, 2002.

Economic Planning Unit (2006) Ninth Malaysia Plan (2006-2010). 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 (1998-2010) or

Third National Agricultural Policy (1998-2010)

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

http://jps.melaka.gov.my/MASMA.htm


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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.


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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


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– 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


25

Annex 3: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Sarawak (Source: Stakeholder Consultative Workshop 22-23 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


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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 > 8o

- 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.


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Annex 5: Activities to Mitigate Land Degradation - Cocoa Sector (source: Malaysian Cocoa Board)

Issue:

Land degradation affects cocoa productivity. For the cultivation of cocoa on sloping land, it is

very important that land degradation practices are effectively addressed. Some of the

important parameters that are frequently affected by sloping land are the thickness of the

organic layer which is very important in cocoa cultivation. As most of the feeder roots of

cocoa are in the top 30cm of the soil, the fertility (organic matter content) of the top soil

should be maintained.

Status:

Currently, there is no enforcement of regulations on the planting of cocoa on sloping land or

guidelines on soil conservation structures or agronomic practices to combat erosion

specifically for cocoa planting on slopes.

Individuals who are keen in the planting of cocoa take their own initiative to formulate or

devise their own conservation measures to combat erosion which includes practices such as

construction of terraces, use of covers/mulches and split application of fertilizers, etc.

List of Current Activities:

Activities Achievements Challenges

Promoting terracing – Sabah

Practice of cutting terraces on sloping land had been beneficial especially in cultivating soils up to 25

O

Indiscriminate extension of the use of this practice to steeper slopes has reduced the productivity of the soil

Study on effects of covers and crop residues such as oil palm fronds - Sabah

Long term benefits of legumes reflected in nutrient contents of soil

Maintenance of legume covers- becomes a creeper for cocoa plant after some time and methods to control the ocurrences

Current Capacity Building Programme:

– Evaluation on the breadth of terrace that is appropriate for cocoa planting on rather steep

slopes in Sabah (2005 – to date)

Challenges:

– Not informed by potential cocoa entrepreneurs on their interest in planting cocoa on

slopes/problem soils.

Suggestions for Capacity Development:

– Discussions between cocoa plantation owners with relevant personnel in institutions

which has the crop and soil management expertise before embarking on the planting of

cocoa on slopes or problem soils.

– Formulate guidelines on the planting of a crop on slopes or problem soils. Many of these

guidelines are present at the intuitional level, but are not adopted / implemented by

parties involved in the planting of the crop.


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– Policies and measures should be included in the package for ‘Good agricultural practices

for cocoa’ and disseminated widely for overall knowledge on crop requirement and

management.


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Annex 6: Coastal Erosion Control Programme - DID

The Coastal Engineering Centre was established in the Department of Irrigation and Drainage

(DID) in 1987. Its objective is to implement coastal erosion control programmes throughout

the country based on the outcomes of the National Coastal Erosion Study in 1986.

This programme protected properties (including public facilities) along the coastline. This

was achieved by construction of erosion control structures such as groyne and revetment

construction; beach nourishment for affected coastal area.

The rational for coastal zone management is to reduce negative impacts arising from

developments in the coastal zone and implement integrated coastal zone management to

ensure sustainable development of the coastal zone.


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Annex 7: Activities Addressing Land Degradation – MARDI

Activities Achievements

Research on sustainable peatland development, eg. crop production, impact of various techniques of land clearing, impacts on agricultural activities (since 1980s)

• Commercial food crops production on peatland

• Database on effect of peatland development on environment (eg. CO2 emission)

• International networking (eg. STRAPEAT and RESTORPEAT)

Research on crop management on tin-tailing soils eg. vegetables and fruit trees (since 1980s)

• Convert the wasteland into commercial vegetables and fruits production

• Publications

Research on crop management on sandy beach-ridge soils, eg. tobacco and food crop (since 1980s)

• Convert the wasteland into commercial tobacco and food crop production (which are also important for poverty eradication in the areas)

• Publications

Research on soil erosion, eg. mechanisms, effects and conservation measures (since 1980s)

• Databases on the nature and effects of soil erosion.

• Recommendations on farm management practices to control soil erosion.

• International networking, eg. with CGIAR

• Publications

Agricultural research station dedicated / semi-dedicated to land degradation

Research stations on peatland (3); sandy beach-ridge soil (2), tin-tailing soil (1) and sloping land (related to soil erosion) – (4)

Dedicated and semi-dedicated researchers on land degradation

Soil erosion (3), peatland (3), agricultural activities on tin tailing soil (1) and sandy beach-ridge soil (5)

Training course dedicated to land degradation (national level)

5-day training course on soil erosion (since 2003) and peatland development (starts in 2007)

Publications

Ghulam, M. Hashim (in press). A guide to soil erosion control in tree-crop farming. MARDI,

Serdang

Vimala, P and Ayob, S (in press). Food crop production on ex-mining land in Malaysia.

MARDI, Serdang

Ismail, A.B., Ong, SK., Mohamad Hanif, MJ., and Umi Kalsom, M.S., (Eds) (2007). Impact

of land clearing on peat ecosystem: A case study of MARDI Peat Research Station at

Sessang, Sarawak. MARDI, Serdang

Ghulam, M. Hashim (2003). Managing soil erosion and nutrient depletion. MARDI, Serdang