From left) Velayuthan, Walter, Dr Arthur and Johnathan after the tree planting.
Group photo of the invited guests and organising committee before the start of the tree planting session.
(From left) Velayuthan, Walter, Dr Arthur and Johnathan after the tree planting.
SANDAKAN : – The International Borneo Sevens 2025 rugby tournament was officially launched today with a symbolic tree planting ceremony at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC).
This initiative, part of the Borneo Sevens 2025 ‘Green Initiative,’ reinforces the commitment of the tournament organizers, Eagles Rugby Club Sandakan (ERC), to environmental sustainability.
Dubbed ‘The Greenest Sevens in the World,’ the prestigious tournament will take place in April 2025, with a series of environmentally conscious events leading up to the main event.
This year’s edition is particularly special as it marks the 20th anniversary of the International Borneo Sevens, celebrating two decades of rugby excellence and ecological responsibility.
A total of 20 tree saplings were planted during the ceremony, symbolizing a collective effort to protect the environment while promoting sportsmanship and community collaboration.
The tree planting initiative plays a vital role in conservation efforts, contributing to carbon sequestration, oxygen production, air purification, water conservation, and wildlife habitat preservation.
ERC extends its gratitude to the Sabah Forestry Department for facilitating the event by providing the venue and donating 20 fruit tree saplings, primarily fig species, for the planting ceremony.
Voices of Support
Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (R&D), Dr. Arthur Chung, commended ERC for its long-standing commitment to sports development and environmental sustainability:
“We know that you have contributed significantly to the development of rugby in Sabah.
To commemorate this 20th anniversary, ERC has chosen to plant trees in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Though a simple act, this initiative carries great significance and aligns with Malaysia’s national campaign towards a greener future.”
ERC President Velayuthan Tan emphasized the club’s dedication to sustainability, expressing appreciation for the sponsors who have supported both the tree planting program and the tournament itself.
Organizing Chairman of the tree planting program, Jonathan Tan, highlighted the deeper purpose behind the initiative: –
“This program is about giving back to the community and addressing carbon offset. Community engagement is our priority, and this marks the first time many of our corporate sponsors have visited a rainforest. We hope it won’t be the last.”
Meanwhile, Bernadette Joeman, Manager of the Rainforest Discovery Centre, underscored the importance of integrating sports with environmental awareness: –
“This collaboration between ERC, SFD, and RDC for the club’s 20th anniversary is an excellent effort. It’s heartening to see corporate sponsors actively participating in conservation.”
“We planted six species today, including Tarap Hutan and fig trees, which are vital as they serve as a ‘supermarket of the rainforest’ for wildlife. We also planted Bambangan in hopes of providing food and shelter for forest animals.”
Strong Community and Corporate Support
The ceremony was attended by Sandakan Municipal Council President Walter Kenson and representatives from major tournament sponsors, including KLK Bhd., TSH Resources Bhd., Loongsyn Sdn. Bhd., Compumed Services Sdn. Bhd., IJM Land Bhd., Crack Inc., Lifewater Industries Sdn. Bhd., Somersby, Karrin Associates Pte. Ltd., and Syt. Pertanian Khoon Siah Sdn. Bhd.
With a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, the International Borneo Sevens 2025 is set to make a lasting impact, proving that sports and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
