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ACB in Action

Sustaining wins for biodiversity conservation and livelihood development projects in Viet Nam

HANOI, Viet Nam — Following the successful implementation of the Small Grants Programme by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity II...

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ASEAN environment leaders meet in Hanoi to advance regional biodiversity goals

HANOI, Viet Nam—Environment leaders and key stakeholders from across Southeast Asia convened in the 36th Meeting of the ASEAN Working...

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Halfway there! Building a sustainable future through local actions

Dr. Jerome L. Montemayor Executive Director, ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) This year marks a crucial midpoint. Four years have...

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ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund drives action on biodiversity, climate finance, and just transition at ASEAN Climate Week 2026

Manila, Philippines, 1 May 2026 – Three UK-funded ASEAN-UK Green Transition Fund (GTF) activities convened during ASEAN Climate Week 2026...

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ASEAN-UK cooperation roots for youth involvement in wetland  conservation

Participants of the Youth Leadership Training for Biodiversity and Wetland Conservation and Restoration with Nursery Establishment Training and Field Demonstration...

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ASEAN-UK project conducts monitoring, data management training and learning exchange on wetland and peatland restoration in Brunei

Wetland and peatland practitioners, mapping officers, and stakeholders from across the ASEAN Member States (AMS) engaged in capacity development in...

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Our Programme Areas

Biodiversity Conservation

Sustainable Use, and Access and Benefit Sharing

Mainstreaming Biodiversity

Capacity Development

Partnerships

Knowledge Management

Communication, Education, and Public Awareness

Biodiversity

Biodiversity is the variety
of all life on Earth.

It ensures food security,
environmental health,
and sustainable development.

More than
650 million people
in the ASEAN region
depend on biodiversity
for their

food

clean water

clean air

livelihood

Genetic Diversity
Genetic diversity is the total number of characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species.​
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Species Diversity
Species diversity is the number of different species that are represented in a given community.​
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Ecosystem Diversity
Ecosystem diversity deals with the variations in ecosystems within a geographical location an its...
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The ASEAN Region

Brunei Darussalam
Location: Northwest coast of the island of Borneo
Biodiversity Highlights
Ecosystems
  • Northeast: 130-kilometer coastline bordering the South China Sea consisting of high-profile sandy beaches with complex estuarine mangrove and mudflat zone
  • West: Alluvial and swampy coastal plain backed by low hills with swamps
  • East: Swampy coastal plain rising gradually to low hills to mountainous terrain inland
  • Has a natural vegetation of tropical evergreen rainforest with 81% forest land area
Flora
  • 15,000 vascular plant species
  • 2,000 tree species
Fauna
  • 300 resident animal species
  • 100 non-flying mammal species, mostly rodents
  • 98 amphibian species
  • 50 reptile species
  • 400 coral species
  • 144 marine fish species
  • 50 freshwater fish species

Cambodia
Location: Continental Southeast Asia bounded by Gulf of Thailand
Biodiversity Highlights

Ecosystems

  • 7,422 square kilometers of national parks
  • 20,300 square kilometers of wildlife sanctuaries
  • 97 square kilometers of protected landscapes
  • 4,039 square kilometers of multiple-use areas
  • 13,500 square kilometers of protected forests
  • 235 square kilometers of fish sanctuaries

Flora

  • 2,308 vascular plant species
  • 8 seagrass speciess

Fauna

  • 545 bird species
  • 123 mammal species
  • 88 reptile species
  • 63 amphibian species
  • 490 freshwater fish species
  • 410 saltwater fish species
Indonesia
Location: Southeast Asia, between the continents of Asia and Australia
Biodiversity Highlights
Ecosystems
  • Covers 1.3% of earth’s surface
  • Has 17,000 islands comprised of a variety of habitats such as lowland rain forests, mangroves,
    savanna grasslands, swamp forests, limestone hills, montane forests, alpine meadows, and snow-topped mountains
  • Has 21 National Biodiversity Conservation Areas including two corridors
  • Has 44 Important Bird Areas
Flora
  • Harbors 10% of all flowering plants
  • 31,746 vascular plant species
  • 8,000 to 11,000 flowering plant species
Fauna
    Home to:
  • 12% of the world’s mammals with 515 mammal species and 35 primate species
  • 16% of the world’s reptiles and amphibians including 781 reptile species and 270 amphibian species
  • 17% of all birds with 1,595 bird species

Lao PDR
Location: Center of Indochinese Peninsula
Biodiversity Highlights

Ecosystems

  • 80% of the country is predominantly mountainous with cultivated floodplains
  • 40% forest land area

Flora

  • 40% of the total land area is covered by forests

Fauna

  • 150 to 200 reptile and amphibian species
  • 700 bird species
  • 90 bat species
  • 100 large animal species
  • 500 fish species

Malaysia
Location: Peninsular Malaysia, with two states located in the island of Borneo
Biodiversity Highlights

Ecosystems

  • Ranks 12 th in the world’s most megadiverse countries
  • 143,000 square kilometers of permanent reserved forest
  • 19,000 square kilometers of national parks, wildlife and bird sanctuaries
  • 2,357 square kilometers of marine protected areas
  • Terrestrial biodiversity is concentrated in tropical rainforests, coastal plains, mountain areas with inland waters like lakes and rivers

Flora

  • 15,000 vascular plant species

Fauna

  • 298 mammal species
  • 742 bird species
  • 242 amphibian species
  • 567 reptile species
  • 290+ freshwater fish species
  • 500 marine fish species
  • 1,031+ butterfly species
  • 1,200 ant species

Myanmar
Location: Northwest of the Indochina region
Biodiversity Highlights

Ecosystems

  • Endowed with striking andunusual forests, plains, rivers, and plateaus

Flora

  • 11,800 vascular plant species of gymnosperms and angiosperms
  • 841 medicinal plant species
  • 96 bamboo species
  • 37 species of rattan

Fauna

  • 251 mammal species
  • 1,056 bird species
  • 272 reptile species
  • 82 amphibian species
  • 310 freshwater fish species
  • 465 marine water species
The Philippines
Location: In between the Philippine Sea
Biodiversity Highlights
Ecosystems
  • Composed of 7,107 islands covering a total area of 300,000 square kilometers
  • One of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries with high rates of endemism
Flora
  • Fifth in the world in number of plant species, maintains 5% of the world’s flora
  • With at least 25 genera of endemic plant species
Fauna
  • 49% of its terrestrial wildlife is endemic
  • Fourth in bird endemism in the world
  • 3,214 fish species

Singapore
Location: Within the Malesian biogeographical region
Biodiversity Highlights

Ecosystems

  • A tropical island city-state consisting of one main island and about 60 smaller offshore islands
  • Has 22 nature areas including four nature reserves
  • With 47% green cover in 2007
  • Close to 10% of total land area is allocated for parks and nature reserves

Flora

  • 3,971 native vascular plant species
  • 31 different true mangrove species

Fauna

  • 52 mammal species
  • 98 reptile species
  • 28 amphibian species
  • 364 bird species
  • 295 butterfly species
  • 200 sponge species
  • 256 hard coral species
Thailand
Location: Center of mainland Southeast Asia
Biodiversity Highlights
Ecosystems
  • 13,115 square kilometers ofland area
  • Has tropical ecosystems with forest types ranging from rainforest, evergreen,
    deciduous and mangrove, to shrub forests and savannah forests
  • Has freshwater ecosystems including rivers, reservoirs, swamps and ponds
    where the endemic species are found
  • Has coastal ecosystems with more than 2,000-kilometer coastline surrounding
    over 200 islands are comprised by coral reefs, sandy beaches, muddy beaches and seagrass beds
Flora
  • 8% of total number of plant species in the world
  • 15,000 plant species
  • 12,000 vascular plant species
  • 658 fern species
  • 25 uncovered seeds
  • 10,000 flowering plant species
  • 1,140 orchid species
Fauna
  • 302 mammal species
  • 982 bird species
  • 350 reptile species
  • 137 semi-water animal species
  • 2,820 marine species
  • 720 freshwater fish species
  • 83,000 invertebrate animal species
  • 14,000 insect species
Vietnam
Location: Indochina peninsula in Southeast Asia
Biodiversity Highlights
Ecosystems
  • Rich in tropical rainforests, monsoon savannah, marine life,
    and mountainous sub-alpine scrubland
  • Lowland coastal zone is bisected by rugged limestone mountains
    separating wetter forest types of the east from the drier forests of the Mekong Basin in the west
Flora
  • 13,200 floral species
  • 20 different types of marine ecosystems
Fauna
  • 10,000 faunal species
  • 3,000 aquatic creatures
  • 11,000 forms of sea life such as crustaceans, mollusks, etc.
Publications
Press Releases
Messages
Events

The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

ASEAN Green Initiative

At least 10 million native trees across 11 ASEAN Member States in a span of 10 years
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2026 International Day for Biodiversity Microsite

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Mangroves for Youth

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Eighth ASEAN Heritage Parks Conference

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ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity @ 20

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#WeAreASEANBiodiversity

Katrina Kendall: looking towards nature to protect biodiversity
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The ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

ASEAN Green Initiative

At least 10 million native trees across 11 ASEAN Member States in a span of 10 years
Learn More

2026 International Day for Biodiversity Microsite

Learn More

Mangroves for Youth

Learn More

Eighth ASEAN Heritage Parks Conference

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ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity @ 20

Learn More

#WeAreASEANBiodiversity

Katrina Kendall: looking towards nature to protect biodiversity
Learn More

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Get to know more about Dr. Reuben Clements and Dr. Tajang Jinggut, two of the co-founders of Nature Based Solutions Sdn. Bhd and both experts in different aspects of biodiversity conservation.

Listen to their stories of how they became hooked to choosing biodiversity for their profession and their early years in the field they chose in this latest episode of Biodiversitalks. You'll definitely pick up a thing or two on how you can act locally for #ASEANbiodiversity from the wise words of two of #ASEAN's brilliant minds.

What happens when communities, park authorities, and partners work together to protect nature?

In this full-length documentary, see how the Small Grants Programme by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity II (SGP II) is creating meaningful change in the lives of men and women—empowering communities to conserve biodiversity while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in and around the four ASEAN Heritage Parks (AHPs) in Viet Nam—Ba Be National Park, Hoang Lien National Park, Chu Mom Ray National Park, and Kon Ka Kinh National Park.

In partnership with the Federal Republic of Germany through the KfW Development Bank, SGP II supports local initiatives—from community-based ecotourism and biodiversity-inspired enterprises to environmental education and climate-resilient practices—demonstrating that small grants can effectively drive local action towards the long-term protection of some of the region’s most vital ecosystems.

Watch this third session of the webinar series, and have a better understanding of the importance of reviewing, validating, and updating of national restoration data through the 𝘍𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘌𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘮 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 (FERM) data review before submitting to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD); learn how the Aggregation Data Section of FERM transforms default restoration data from multiple sources into a format aligned with the CBD reporting template; and get a detailed technical walkthrough on how aggregated restoration data from FERM can be transferred to the CBD Online Reporting Tool via API.

Earlier in February, representatives from government ministries, Technical and Scientific Cooperation Support Centres (TSCCs), academe, and private organisations participated in the webinar entitled Using the Application Programming Interface (API) to upload national databases to the FERM. Here, they were introduced to the FERM registry and guided through a technical walkthrough of its API system, enabling more efficient and programmatic submission of national restoration initiatives.

This webinar is the second in a series of virtual events – Enhancing Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring and Reporting under KMGBF Target 2 through the FERM Tool – a collaborative effort of the FAO, SCBD, and the ACB.

Numbers are also an important part of ecosystem restoration!

A few weeks ago, the ACB collaborated with the Food and Agriculture Organization and the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity for the pilot webinar of a series on Monitoring and Reporting of KM GBF Target 2: Understanding the Headline Indicator and the Reporting template.

The event, attended by representatives from government organisations/ministries, academe, private organisations, and other TSCCs, guided the constituent countries for quality monitoring and reporting of areas under restoration in relation to the goal of restoring at least 30 per cent of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

Check out this recording of that information-filled event!

Twenty years in the making, but the resulting impact on ASEAN’s biodiversity and citizens makes all the work and wait worth it.

Hit play, take a trip down memory lane, and celebrate these milestones for biodiversity.

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partners

IMA World Health is a leading public health organisation that delivers solutions to health-related problems across the developing world. The organisation works with local partners and governments to strengthen existing health systems, prevent and treat diseases, improve maternal and child health, promote nutrition and WASH, and contribute to global health security. 

Learn more about IMA World Health here: https://imaworldhealth.org/

The EU also plays a leading role in international efforts to promote sustainable development. Environmental challenges do not stop at borders. More action is needed globally to ensure clean air, oceans and other water resources and to ensure that land and ecosystems are used sustainably and that climate change is kept to manageable levels.

Learn more about the European Union here: https://op.europa.eu/webpub/com/eu-what-it-is/en/#chapter2

The Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) is a Philippine-based investment management and holding company registered with the Philippine Securities Exchange Commission. It is a leading infrastructure holding company with a diverse set of assets held through operating companies. Through acquisitions and strategic partnerships, MPIC  seeks to create value by upgrading infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, increasing customer coverage and working closely with regulators and other partners in government.

Learn more about MPIC here: https://www.mpic.com.ph/about-us/our-company/

Known as one of the world’s leading promotional banks, the KfW Development Bank is committed to improving the social and economic living conditions of people around the world, while promoting environmental and ecological sustainability. On behalf of the Federal Government of Germany and the federal states, the KfW provides financial support to governments, public enterprises, and commercial banks in developing countries.

Learn more about KfW here: https://www.kfw-entwicklungsbank.de/International-financing/KfW-Entwicklungsbank/

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Field visit

Hosted by Viet Nam, a field trip is scheduled at Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is recognised for its geological and geomorphological value due to the development of karst limestone formations over billions of years. These limestone features are the result of Earth’s tectonic deformation, uplift, erosion, weathering, and sea level changes. Ha Long Bay also represents one of the areas where sea level changes have occurred throughout Earth’s evolutionary history from the Cretaceous period to the present. Thus, Ha Long Bay serves as a living record of global climate change. It also exemplifies the interaction between geological and biological processes, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem

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parallel sessions

Co-organised with the European Union through the Technical Assistance Facility to the Green Team Europe Initiative (EU-GTEI)

 

    • Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are actions to protect, sustainably manage and restore natural and modified ecosystems in ways that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, to provide both human well-being and biodiversity benefits. This underpins the benefits that flow from healthy ecosystems and targets major challenges like climate change, disaster risk reduction, food and water security, and health are critical to economic development. 

      This interactive session will explore how Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can be scaled and adapted across ASEAN Heritage Parks (AHPs) to enhance biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and community resilience. Using the ASEAN NbS Platform as a foundation, the sessions will connect landscape-based NbS strategies with the unique ecological and cultural contexts of AHPs.

Subtopics and Speakers:

Introduction to Nature-based Solutions in ASEAN Heritage Parks Landscape Strategies for Climate Action through Implementation of NbS in and around AHPs

Introduction to Nature-based Solutions in ASEAN Heritage Parks Landscape Strategies for Climate Action through Implementation of NbS in and around AHPs

Mr. Sebastien Goethals

NbS, Spatial & Landscape Planner Expert

Co-designing and Financing NbS Pilot Projects in ASEAN Heritage Parks

Mr. Alvin Lopez

Head of Nature Solutions Finance Hub, ADB (TBC)

Ms. Domiliza Campaner

Park Superintendent

Pasonanca Natural Park, Philippines

Ms. Elisabet Rismauli Wahyuni

Park Manager

Lorentz National Park, Indonesia

Mr. Nguyen Hoang Minh Hai

Head of Scientific Research and

International Cooperation Dept

Tram Chim National Park, Viet Nam

co-organised with IMA World Health

  • Date & Time: 3 December 2025, 13:30 – 17:00
  • Venue: Thanh Lân 1 (1st floor)
  • Target Participants:  National Focal Points (ACB Governing Body, AWGNCB), AHP Park Managers and their partners, and other government agencies working in biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, public health, agriculture, and environmental protection, and community, academe and private sector partners engaged in One Health, zoonoses, prevention, and sustainable wildlife management

  • AHP 8 – Session 2 – Concept Note

     

 

    • The increasing prevalence of zoonotic disease underscores the need for integrated approaches to managing health risks at the interface of humans, animals, and ecosystems. This urgency was reinforced during the CBD COP 16 with the adoption of the Global Action Plan on Biodiversity and Health. This milestone document promotes preventive, ecosystem-based strategies to address key drivers of zoonotic disease, including habitat loss, illegal wildlife trade, and unsustainable wildlife management. In Southeast Asia,  the ACB plays an active role in implementing these principles, having been involved in the development and implementation of the ASEAN One Health Joint Plan of Action (ASEAN OH JPA) following the ASEAN Leaders Declaration on One Health in May 2023.  Furthermore, the ACB also fosters regional collaboration and capacity-building initiatives by integrating One Health principles into conservation strategies across ASEAN Member States. 


      This session will highlight how ASEAN, through the AHP Programme and its wider biodiversity agenda, is contributing to the implementation of the KM GBF. It will also showcase progress on mainstreaming One Health principles into conservation strategies, identify opportunities for cross-sectoral collaboration, and explore innovative pathways for cooperation in line with the goals of the KM GBF and the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan. The session will include the subtopics indicated below and will feature experiences and perspectives from the following speakers and panelists:

Subtopics and Speakers/Panelists

Biodiversity, Health, and Emerging Risks: The Global and Regional One Health Landscape

Dr. Jerome Montemayor

Executive Director

ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Dr. Mardi Caniban

Bureau of Animal Industry

Department of Agriculture

Philippines

Ms. Viny Sutriani

One Health Focal Point

Ministry of Health

Indonesia

Ms. Yang Shufen

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Singapore

Advances and Future of One Health through a Whole-of-Society Approach

Mr. Oliver Agoncillo

Director

Mainstreaming Biodiversity Division

Programmes Department

ACB

Dr. Melbourne Talactac

Chairman

One Health University Network

Philippines

Ms. Niken Salindri

Program Manager for the

One Health Collaborating Centers

One Health University Network

Indonesia

Ms. Nga Nguyen

One Health Team Leader


Wildlife Conservation Society

Representative Office in Viet Nam

Mr. Elliott James Ong

Co-Founder

Pasarfish

  • Organised with ACB’s Small Grants Programme II
  • Date & Time: 3 December 2025, 13:30 – 17:00
  • Venue: Yên Đức (2nd floor)
  • Target Participants: AHP stakeholders (youth, members of the indigenous people group), AHP sites that have active participation of youth, and IPLCs 
    • The Indigenous Peoples, Local Communities (IPs and LCs), youth, and women have critical contributions in advancing biodiversity conservation and achieving the Biodiversity Plan. Their stewardship, traditional knowledge, and leadership are essential for strengthening ecosystem resilience, promoting biodiversity-friendly livelihoods, and ensuring that conservation actions are inclusive and sustainable. Building on the ACB’s efforts to integrate these groups into policy and practice, the session builds on these efforts, showcasing lessons learned, strategies, and good practices for fostering meaningful partnerships and inclusive participation in protected area management, biodiversity governance, and conservation action across ASEAN.
  •  

Subtopics and Speakers

Championing Biodiversity Conservation: Recognising Indigenous Peoples, Local Communities, Youth, and Women as Nature’s Stewards

Mr. Muhammad Nur Hisham bin Busra

Park Warden

Endau-Rompin Johor National Park, Malaysia

Ms. Nadia Putri Rachma Persada

Regional Co-Coordinator

Global Youth Biodiversity Network SEA

Dr. Lerma SJ Maldia

Professor, Department of Forest Biological Sciences / 

Director, Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems

University of the Philippines Los Baños Laguna,

Philippines

Enhancing conservation efforts through the meaningful participation of Indigenous peoples, local communities, youth, and women: The Case of the Small Grants Programme (SGP)

Dr. Nguyen Hoang Hao

Director of Dong Nai Nature and Culture Reserve

Deputy Head – Dong Nai World Biosphere Reserve

Management Board

Ms. Sarah Grace  Ancheta

M&E Officer

ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Mr. Muhammad Abdul Syukur

Director of Penabulu Foundation

Ms. Lina Warlina

AHP Manager representative

Way Kambas National Park

Ms. Ho

Ayun Commune Representative

Ms. Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Lan

Director

Center for Water Resources Conservation and

Development (WARECOD)

Ms. Wai Mon Thet

Range Officer

Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division,

Forest Department

Co-Creating Inclusive Approaches to Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation

  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 08:30-12:00 
  • Venue: Yên Đức (Second floor)
  • Target Participants: NBSAP planners, protected area authorities, AHP managers and staff implementing or planning restoration initiatives, private sectors or academe engaged in restoration, species-site matching, and biodiversity monitoring
  • Concept Note
 

    • Various efforts from ASEAN Member States and the ACB’s TSCC country parties proactively address this concern through their NBSAP and national commitments to eradicate and reverse degradation. The ASEAN Heritage Parks and the ASEAN Green Initiative exemplify the best practices in ecosystem restoration, enhancing and protecting the integrity of the ecosystems. Ecological restoration and rehabilitation in AHPs demonstrate effective protected area management for the protection and maintenance of the habitat of important species, while the ASEAN Green Initiative showcases the best people-led reforestation initiatives in private lands, urban settings, key biodiversity and various landscapes. These restoration initiatives showcase inclusivity in restoration. The session highlights ASEAN’s best practices in scaling up Target 2 and Target 3 of the KM GBF through its flagship programmes, AHP and the AGI. 

Subtopics and Speakers

Key Note Speaker:

Ms. Zhuo Cheng

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

From Global Goals to Local Actions: Policy, Planning, and Governance for Protected Area Restoration

Ms. Nancy R. Corpuz

Chief, Ecosystems Management Specialist

Biodiversity Management Bureau

Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Philippines AWGNCB

Mr. Sulistyanto

Policy Analyst

Directorate of Area Conservation

Ministry of Forestry

AHP Committee Member 

 

Mr. Palber Turnip 

Gunung Leuser National Park

Ms. Somawan Sukprasert

Environmentalist, Senior Professional Level, 

Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning

Thailand AWGNCB

Mr. Chalong Thongsong 

Kraeng Krachan National Park

Scaling up Restoration: Innovations and Tools in Restoration

Ms. Abegail Y. Gatdula, RPF

BINHI Program Lead

Corporate Relations & Communications

Energy Development Corporation

Ms. Riina Jalonen

Scientist 

Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT

Dr. Joe Miller

Executive Secretary and Director

Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)

Ms. Zhuo Cheng

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 8:30 – 12:00
  • Venue: Thanh Lân 1 (First floor)
  • Target Participants: Technical Staff (national and local government agencies) handling protected area management, fisheries, environment, biodiversity, spatial planning, and natural resource governance; ASEAN regional bodies and technical working groups; Protected area managers and site-level practitioners; Scientists and researchers, academe, and students; Technology and data providers; and other stakeholders present during the AHP8 interested to know more about KMGBF Target 3
  • Concept Note
 

    • Achieving Target 3 of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM GBF) calls for conserving at least 30 per cent of the world’s land and sea areas through effective and inclusive management. Session 3: Strengthening Biodiversity Conservation – ASEAN’s Collaborative Contributions to the 30×30 Target will showcase the region’s collective efforts, key actions, and partnerships that advance biodiversity conservation. The session will emphasise on ASEAN’s collaborative approaches and innovative practices that help accelerate regional progress toward the achievement of Target 3.

Subtopics and Speakers

From Data to Decisions: Integrating Ecological Science and Stakeholder Realities to Achieve 30x30

Vincent V. Hilomen, PhD

Regional Fisheries Adviser

ASEAN ENMAPS Project

Sapto Aji Prabowo

Director Conservation Area Management

Ministry of Forestry, Indonesia

Sheila G. Vergara, PhD

Project Manager-Chief Technical Adviser

ASEAN ENMAPS Project

Shufen Yang

Director

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore

From Insights to Action: Strengthening AHP Management towards achievement of the 30x30 target

Thien Le Quoc

WWF – Viet Nam

Carlo Paolini

IMET Coach / Biodiversity and Governance Specialist

Christian Elloran

Director

Biodiversity Informatics and Geospatial Analysis

ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Timothy John Pasicolan

AHP Programme Associate

ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 8:30 – 12:00
  • Venue: Thanh Lân 2 (First  floor)
  • Target Participants: Conference attendees invested in understanding financing gaps and opportunities in protected area management, including those involved in the planning and implementation of financing strategies, partnerships, plans, and policies addressing these gaps. 
  • Concept Note
 

    • Protected Areas provide ecosystem services that are critical for biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, ecosystem resilience, sustainable economic development, and improving human well-being. Effective protected area management is a critical tool in safeguarding these benefits.  Sustaining and scaling these efforts requires innovative approaches and sustainable sources of financing and resource mobilisation. 


      In Southeast Asia, financing for the development of protected areas is inadequate. Most of these PAs rely on traditional funding sources, which are the government, where funds are quite limited and unpredictable. PAs require a sustainable source of financing to support general administration, maintenance of buildings, vehicles, and equipment, law enforcement, species and habitat monitoring, scientific studies, outreach and awareness programmes, and tourism management. Mobilising adequate and sustainable financing is essential for meeting the goals of the Biodiversity Plan and ensuring long-term biodiversity conservation in ASEAN. 


      This session will explore how ASEAN can scale up resource mobilisation, while strengthening partnerships and financing strategies. Particular emphasis will be given to the AHP Programme as a platform for piloting and showcasing sustainable financing models that directly support protected area management, biodiversity-friendly livelihoods, and community participation. This session will highlight the best practices, opportunities, and lessons on how ASEAN can leverage sustainable finance to secure long-term conservation, protection, and resilience of its most important ecosystems.

Sub-topics and Speakers

Introduction (Overview): Importance of Sustainable Financing in Protected Area Management

Ms. Kamille Rosales

Biodiversity Finance Analyst

Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) Global Team

United Nations Development Programme

Natural Capital Accounting and Valuation of Ecosystem Services: A Guide to Investments, Policy Decisions, and Financial Instruments in Protected Areas

Mr. Ryan A. Cuanan

Chief, Ecosystems Management Specialist

Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Best Practices and Lessons in Innovative Financing

Mr. Aung Thant Zin

Chief Executive Officer

Myanmar Environmental Rehabilitation- Conservation

Network (MERN)

Ms. Joyce Panaligan-Quinan

Senior Sustainability Manager

Metro Pacific Investments Corporation

Mr. Lennon Dungau Anak Remil

Park Warden

Gunung Mulu National Park

Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC)

Mr. Dzulhaili Bin Dzulkarnain

Assistant Secretary

Ministry of Natural Resources and

Environmental Sustainability

Mainstreaming Sustainable Financing to Biodiversity Conservation Plans and Policies

Ms. Krystal Dayne Villanada

Protected Area Superintendent

Apo Reef Natural Park

Mr. Komkrit Setbubpha

Director

National Park Research and

Innovation Development Division

Department of Natural Parks, Wildlife and

Plant Conservation

Mr. Pham Van Trung

Senior Programme Officer

Viet Nam Forest Protection and Development Fund

(VNFF)

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Implementation of

payment for Forest Environmental Services

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ACtivities

Date & Time: 2 December 2025, 08:30 – 12:00

Venue: Thanh Lân 2 (First floor)

Target Participants: Closed session for AHP Managers and AHP Committee Members

  •  
    • This Meeting, which will convene the AHP Committee members, site managers, and park superintendents of the 69 protected areas under the AHP Network, will serve as a key regional platform for strengthening collaboration and coordination among the ASEAN Member States (AMS)  in the management and conservation of the AHPs. This Meeting will provide an opportunity for AHP managers to present accomplishments, challenges, and lessons learned in managing their respective parks, and will facilitate the exchange of knowledge, good practices, and innovative approaches towards effective protected area management. Moreover, it will serve as a venue to share relevant regional and national initiatives and explore opportunities for collaboration and capacity-building. Through these exchanges, the Meeting will enhance the resilience and sustainability of AHPs and support the ASEAN’s collective efforts to achieve the targets of the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan.
  • Date & Time: 2 December 2025, 13:30 – 16:30
  • Venue: Kim Quy (First floor)
  • Target Participants: Closed session for the ASEAN ENMAPS PSC
    • The ASEAN ENMAPS Project aims to enhance the management of coastal and marine resources in the large marine ecosystems of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. It is implemented by the ACB through the United Nations Development Programme, with support from the Global Environment Facility.
    • The Project helps strengthen Marine Protected Area networks and promote connected marine corridors through marine spatial planning, coastal management, and sustainable fisheries practices. It is coordinated nationally by the following organisations:
      • Ministry of Forestry (Indonesia)
      • Department of Environment and Natural Resources (Philippines)
      • Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (Thailand)
    • The Regional PSC was established to provide high-level oversight, strategic guidance, and approval of key project implementation decisions. The Second Regional PSC Meeting will be convened to provide an update on the implementation of the ASEAN ENMAPS. Specifically, the meeting aims to: 
    1. Seek guidance on the recommended actions following the results of the Project Implementation Review
    2. discuss concerns on project implementation at the regional, national, and site levels
    3. Seek approval of the 2026 work and budget plan, as well as the procurement plan
  • Date & Time: 2 December 2025, 13:30 – 17:00
  • Venue: Yên Đức (First floor)
  • Target Participants: Closed workshop for AHP Committee Members, AHP Site Managers and Staff, ASEAN Secretariat
    • This orientation session, co-organised with the European Union through the Technical Assistance Facility to the Green Team Europe Initiative (EU TAF-GTEI), will introduce ROAM to AHP Committee Members and the AHP Managers and Staff. ROAM is a diagnostic tool that provides a systematic and flexible framework for identifying, prioritising, and planning restoration interventions, facilitates the rapid assessment of landscape restoration opportunities and identification of specific priority areas at a landscape level. The session will also identify potential pilot sites among ASEAN Heritage Parks to use the ROAM. 
  • Date & Time: 2 December 2025, 14:00 – 16:00
  • Venue: Thanh Lân 2 (First floor)
  • Target Participants: Closed session for ASEAN Working Group on Nature and Conservation and Biodiversity, ASEAN Secretariat, and the ACB Governing Board Members

 

    • The 17th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17) and its Protocols is crucial for evaluating how the ASEAN Member States (AMS) are doing in following the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Hence, the AMS need to escalate actions in their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and prepare to submit the Seventh National Report (7NR). The CBD COP17 also presents an important opportunity for ASEAN to project a unified regional position on key biodiversity priorities through the ASEAN Joint Statement. The Joint Statement serves as a strategic tool to ensure that the region’s perspectives on key agendas of the CBD COP17 are acknowledged. This roundtable, co-organised with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability will provide a focused platform to discuss the preparation towards CBD COP17 and how the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity can play a significant role in assisting the AMS in implementing the NBSAP and the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan (ABP), in preparing for the 7NR, and solidifying national and regional positions.
  • Date & Time: 3 December 2025, 9:00 – 12:30
  • Venue: Hồng Quảng (Second floor)
  • Target Participants: All Conference attendees and online participants

 

    • The Opening Session will highlight the goals and expectations of the Conference. Keynote addresses and presentations on the role of ASEAN Heritage Parks in supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework targets, as well as global and regional perspectives and actions on nature-based solutions, climate change adaptation and mitigation, will be highlighted in this session. Additionally, reflections on past AHP Conferences will be shared. 
    • To provide an overview of the Conference, a short pitch will also be delivered by the leads of the parallel sessions to encourage participation from the attendees, as well as a video presentation highlighting the key features of the AHP8 Marketplace and Exhibits. A special ceremony will take place showcasing a series of performances from the host country, Viet Nam.

Keynote Presentations

  • KM GBF the next five years: Opportunities and Challenges
  • Dr. Uttam Babu Shrestha
  • Global Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Current trends and status of biodiversity
  • Dr. Joseph Thomas Miller
  • Executive Secretary, Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • The ASEAN Biodiversity Plan: Opportunities and Challenges for ASEAN towards 2030
  • Ms. Siti Zulaikha binti Abdul Wahab
  • Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Malaysia
  • Date & Time: Entire duration of the Conference
  • Venue: Hồng Quảng (Second floor)
  • Target Participants: All Conference attendees

 

    • The Marketplace and Exhibits will highlight the ASEAN Heritage Parks (AHPs) of the ASEAN Member States, as well as the milestones and key accomplishments of the AHP Programme over the years. It will also provide an opportunity for the AHPs to display their biodiversity-based products and to network with prospective partners. This will also include a pavilion for Viet Nam, as the Conference host country, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity. 
    • Partners or sponsors who wish to showcase their organisation or products are also encouraged to take part in the Marketplace and Exhibits.

  • Venue: Hồng Quảng (2nd floor)

    As the host country, Viet Nam will warmly welcome all AHP8 participants with a special dinner showcasing its rich culture and hospitality. The evening will feature a short programme prepared by the hosts, offering guests an opportunity to experience local traditions, enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and foster camaraderie among delegates ahead of the conference sessions. This will also highlight the awarding ceremony for the newly designated AHPs for the previous three years: 

    • 2022
      • 52nd Pasonanca Natural Park (Philippines)
      • 53rd Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park (Philippines)
      • 54th Bach Ma National Park (Viet Nam)
      • 55th Con Dao National Park (Viet Nam)
    • 2023
      • 56th Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary-Nam Nao National Park (Thailand)
      • 57th Phu Kradueng National Park (Thailand)
    • 2024
      • 58th Phou Xieng Thong National Protected Area (Lao PDR)
      • 59th Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park (Philippines)
      • 60th Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary (Philippines)
      • 61st Apo Reef Natural Park (Philippines)
      • 62nd Nam Poui National Protected Area (Lao PDR)
      • 63rd Royal Thai Army Nature Education Center (Bang Pu) (Thailand)
    • 2025
      • 64th Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve (Malaysia)
      • 65th Bako National Park (Malaysia)
      • 66th Lambir Hills National Park (Malaysia)
      • 67th Pu Mat National Park (Viet Nam)
      • 68th Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve (Viet Nam)
      • 69th Xuan Thuy National Park (Viet Nam)
  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 13:00 – 15:00
  • Venue: Yên Đức (Second floor)
  • Target Participants: Focal points involved in ecosystem restoration planning and monitoring, technical specialists, protected area managers, and data practitioners responsible for restoration tracking, geospatial analysis

 

    • Accessing crucial restoration-related data remains a significant challenge, impeding the scaling of ecosystem restoration efforts. To address this, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in collaboration with the UN Decade Task Forces on Monitoring and Best Practices, has developed the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM). FERM enhances data access, transparency, and alignment of restoration actions with scientific insights. It also supports countries in monitoring and reporting restoration areas for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM GBF) Target 2. Launched in 2022, FERM includes a registry of restoration initiatives, a geospatial platform for data visualisation, and a search engine for accessing initiatives and good practices. A data review functionality is being developed to support countries reporting Headline indicator 2.1 Area under restoration to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

    • The FERM Registry allows for the registration of restoration initiatives and good practices, ensuring interoperability with platforms like GEF. The geospatial platform enables analysis of restoration-related data, including remotely sensed data, while the FERM Search engine consolidates initiatives and practices from various collaborating platforms to facilitate knowledge sharing.

    • The ASEAN Heritage Parks initiative brings potential data providers to FERM. Including spatial data of ASEAN Heritage Parks in FERM contributes to the transparent monitoring of ecosystem restoration in the subregion and the effective implementation of Target 2 of the KM GBF.

    • In this workshop side co-organised with the FAO, participants will engage in an interactive overview of FERM, exploring its functionalities and focusing on the importance of registering initiatives and documenting good practices. Through presentations, discussions, and hands-on sessions, the workshop aims to familiarise participants with FERM’s tools and encourage knowledge exchange and capacity building. 

  • Ms. Zhuo Cheng
  • Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 13:00 – 15:00
  • Venue: Thanh Lân 1 (First floor)
  • Target Participants:  Youth and youth organisations, members of the Indigenous people and local community,  women’s groups, AHP Staff and Managers, Partners, Civil Society Organisations, and other AHP8 Stakeholders 
  • Click here to download the Concept note

 

    • This side event will bring together youth leaders, government representatives, and ASEAN institutions to strengthen intergenerational collaboration in biodiversity governance. Aligned with the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan (ABP) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the session will explore innovative practices and pathways to institutionalise meaningful youth participation in biodiversity policy and action. Using a creative participatory activity, Our Collective Story of Kinship with Biodiversity Map, participants will co-create a symbolic representation of shared responsibility across generations, fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and joint commitment toward implementing the ABP and the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans.

Speakers:

  • Ms. Erista Murpratiwi
  • Bantimurung Bulusaraung National Park, Indonesia
  • Ms. Purnama Yantje
  • Project Manager of Hanns Seidel Stiftung
  • Ms. Somawan Sukprasert
  • Environmentalist, Senior Professional Level
  • Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning, Thailand
  • Mr. Mark Liao Jun
  • President of Sarawak Eco Warriors and 
  • Regional Co-Coordinator of GYBN SEA
  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 15:00 – 17:00
  • Venue: Hồng Quảng (Second floor)
  • Target Participants: All Conference attendees

 

    • The closing session will highlight the objectives achieved by the AHP8. The session will include the presentation of summaries and key recommendations from the breakout sessions. Tokens of appreciation will also be awarded to key partners for their significant contributions to the conference’s success. A short video containing the highlights of the Conference will be played.

  • Date & Time: 4 December 2025, 17:30 – 15:00
  • Venue: Hồng Quảng (Second floor)
  • Target Participants: All Conference attendees

 

    • The SGP II Closing will be the culminating event bringing together key stakeholders—including implementing partners, technical experts, service providers, park management staff from ASEAN Heritage Parks in Viet Nam, and community beneficiaries. The Closing will highlight the Programme’s successes, best practices, and key lessons learned from activities focused on community awareness, livelihood support, and biodiversity conservation across the four selected SGP-supported AHPs in Viet Nam. As part of the event, discussions will also include the second instalment of ACB’s Project Sustainability Forum, aimed at exploring pathways to ensure that the Programme’s positive outcomes and community-driven initiatives continue to thrive beyond the Programme’s funding cycle.