Kuala Lumpur, 5 November – The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) celebrated the talents of Malaysia’s photographers today with a prize-giving ceremony for the 2024 Photo Contest, held at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2). This year’s contest commemorated MTCC’s 25th anniversary and invited photographers and videographers to capture the beauty of Malaysia’s tropical rainforests and ecosystems, promoting awareness of sustainable forest management.
YB Datuk Wetrom Bahanda, MTCC Chairman, officiated the ceremony and expressed his honor in celebrating the achievements of Malaysia’s photographers as well as the nation’s precious forests. “This contest has not only showcased the beauty of Malaysia’s forests but also underscored the importance of sustainable forestry in protecting our natural heritage for generations to come,” said YB Datuk Wetrom Bahanda. “Each entry reflects the dedication of these photographers to highlighting the value of our forests and their essential role in our ecosystem.” MTCC Chief Executive Officer Dr. Farrah Shameen Mohamad Ashray also joined in the presentation, celebrating the winners’ impactful portrayals of Malaysia’s forests.
A Contest with a Mission
The 2024 Photo Contest, held from August 16 to September 30, marked MTCC’s sixth year organizing the event since its inception in 2017. Reflecting MTCC’s commitment to advocacy, the contest aims to raise public awareness on the importance of nature appreciation and sustainable forest management through certification. This year saw record participation, with 176 participants submitting over 800 photos and videos from across Malaysia.
The contest featured various categories, including the “People in Sustainable Forestry,” where photographers explored the human connection to forests, and the “Forest Landscapes and Ecosystems,” which showcased the vast beauty and biodiversity of Malaysia’s rainforests. To reach a wider audience, MTCC introduced several new elements, including a TikTok Video category. This category encouraged Malaysians to engage creatively with sustainable forestry through video storytelling, meeting a growing audience on this popular platform. This year’s contest also included a special Student Motivation Prize, with five student entries receiving cash prizes in recognition of their contributions to conservation photography.
A Broader Audience Through KLIA2 Exhibition
Another notable change this year is the location of the exhibition, which has moved from the Kuala Lumpur Photography Festival to gateway@KLIA2. As a major gateway for travelers from around the world, KLIA2 enables MTCC to reach an international audience. The award-winning photos are now on display in the KLIA Terminal 2 Arrival Hall from November 4 to 10, 2024, inviting visitors to enjoy these impactful portrayals of Malaysia’s natural landscapes. By showcasing these stunning images at KLIA2, MTCC aims to deepen public appreciation for Malaysia’s breathtaking forests and promote awareness of sustainable forestry and conservation.
Meet the 2024 Photo Contest Winners
The Grand Prize was awarded to Mr. Peter Lo Kong San, a 70-year-old retiree from Sabah, whose captivating image of the Kota Kinabalu wetlands wowed the judges. Taken along the boardwalk at the Kota Kinabalu Wetlands, Peter’s photo showcases a tranquil reflection of trees in the wetland’s waters, immersing viewers in the natural beauty of this ecologically rich mangrove forest. The area, a vital ecotourism destination and environmental education center, offers a glimpse into Sabah’s lush landscape. Peter received a RM2,000 prize and a certificate for his winning shot.
In the Forest Landscapes and Ecosystems category, Jasni Bin Hashim, an engineer from Perlis, won the Best Photo award for his piece titled “Colorful Forest During Dry Season in Perlis.” This scene, taken during the Musim Timur—a unique seasonal phase from December to March—captures the striking transformation of Perlis’s landscape as trees shed their leaves, displaying vibrant hues of yellow and red. Jasni, who took the photo in Kampung Syed Omar, Batu Pahat, in February 2024, explained, “I was inspired to capture this moment as it’s rare and unique to Perlis.” Jasni’s photo earned him a RM1,200 cash prize.
Ting Pang Sing from Sarawak received the Best Photo award in the People in Sustainable Forestry category. Taken in Padawan, Sarawak, Ting’s photo emphasizes the interdependence of forest and river ecosystems. “Without these rivers, the forests would deteriorate, leading to the extinction of many species,” Ting shared. His photo highlights the importance of conservation efforts to preserve these valuable ecosystems and earned him a RM1,200 cash prize.
Supporting Forest Conservation Awareness
Dr. Farrah Shameen Mohamad Ashray emphasized the importance of fostering a public appreciation for Malaysia’s forests. “As Malaysians, we’re surrounded by forest products in our daily lives—from timber to clean air—and it’s crucial to recognize and celebrate the beauty and value of our forests. Through this contest and exhibition, we hope to inspire a commitment to conserve these precious ecosystems for the benefit of our environment, communities, and future generations.”
MTCC, established in 1998, operates the voluntary Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS) and is committed to strengthening Malaysia’s approach to sustainable forest management. This year, MTCC proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary under the theme “25 Years Championing Sustainability,” having certified 6.55 million hectares of forests and plantations. Through initiatives like the photography contest, MTCC enhances public appreciation for forests and promotes sustainable practices vital to Malaysia’s biodiversity. The Council extends its gratitude to all participants and its partner, PCP Publications, whose support has been instrumental in the contest’s success and in conserving Malaysia’s natural treasures.