Scientific studies have found that exposure to the forest environment can bring benefits to mental and physical health, including reducing stress level. This was underlined by the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism in a message in conjunction with the International Day of Forests 2023 which carried the theme ‘Forest and Health.’ Apart from that, a healthy forest also brings various benefits to the economy, and has the potential to develop ecotourism.
Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Doctor Awang Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism shared that this year’s theme highlighted the connection between the forest and its importance to human’s mental health. Yang Berhormat explained that this is relevant with the Wawasan Brunei 2035. In this regard, the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism through the Forestry Department has taken the initiative to maintain recreational parks in the country to encourage recreational activities within the community. This efforts involved providing basic facilities such as huts, parking areas and public restrooms. It also aimed to encourage the community to practise a healthy lifestyle aside from appreciating the beauty and diversity of nature.
As a leading agency for Strategy 2: Forest Cover under the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy, the ministry through the Forestry Department will remain committed to preserving and conserving the forest. This includes organising tree planting programmes throughout the year, and implement sustainable forest management. Hence, it is hoped that other agencies including private companies, non-governmental organisations and the public can together play a role specifically in carrying out tree planting activities towards upholding the policy’s implementation to achieve the set target.
Source: Radio Television Brunei