Youth at the Frontline: Combating Forest Encroachment in Indonesia and Malaysia

Forest encroachment remains a pressing issue in South Asia, with complex social, environmental, and economic implications. In Indonesia and Malaysia, while industries such as palm oil contribute to economic growth, they also come with significant environmental costs. Recently, the rising awareness about the environmental toll of forest encroachment has sparked the demand for sustainable practices across South Asia. To mitigate the effects of deforestation, the promotion of green jobs is critical, offering economic opportunities while fostering environmental stewardship. In this transformation, the youth of South Asia stand at the forefront, equipped with the passion, creativity, and tools needed to lead the region toward a more sustainable and equitable future. In this article, the writers are addressing forest encroachment and embracing the opportunity for the youth community to contribute to forest conservation and the green economy. However, these initiatives will require multi-sector collaboration, with the youth as vital agents of change in shaping a sustainable future for the region.

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