As part of the side activities of the Meeting of Ministers of Education and Higher Education of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), participated in a field visit to the Kilim Geoforest Park on the Malaysian island of Langkawi, which is listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Park is considered one of the most remarkable and beautiful natural forest areas in Southeast Asia. It hosts a unique biodiversity, most notably dense mangrove forests, the reddish-brown Brahminy Kites, and a number of rare plant and animal species. The Malaysian government has shown great interest in the park due to its environmental and scientific value, as well as its touristic attraction.

In a symbolic gesture expressing collective commitment to environmental protection, the participating ministers, alongside ICESCO’s DG, planted a mangrove tree, as a tribute to the values of sustainability and regional cooperation in preserving natural heritage.

Also present on the visit were several Ministers of Education and Higher Education from ASEAN countries, in addition to the UNESCO Representative in Indonesia—highlighting the harmonization of efforts between national and international institutions to protect the environment and enhance environmental awareness in education policy.

During the visit, Dr. AlMalik stated that: “We are not just planting a tree, we are planting a symbol of hope and a deep commitment to a more sustainable future. Environmental protection must be an integral part of our educational vision. We must link education with nature so that future generations appreciate the value of ecological balance and strive to preserve it.” He also emphasized that ICESCO has committed itself to the importance of greening education and integrating it into curricula.