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Belalongensis: Volume 2, Issue 2

Belalongensis: Volume 2, Issue 2

Post author:iber
Post published:11/12/2019
Post category:Newsletter

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Contact Info

Address:Institute For Biodiversity and Environmental Research, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Universiti, BE1410, Brunei Darussalam
Email:office.iber@ubd.edu.bnOpens in your application

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🌳 Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research, UBD
🌱 Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre
🌱 UBD Botanical Research Centre
#iber #kbfsc #brc

The 7th Scientific Committee Meeting of the Borneo

The 7th Scientific Committee Meeting of the Borneo Studies Network (BSN) and the BSN Roadshow were held in Balikpapan, Kalimantan from 24–25 April 2025.

The Universiti Brunei Darussalam delegation was led by Dr. Joyce Teo, Assistant Vice Chancellor (Global Engagement) and Chairman of the BSN Scientific Committee Meeting (SCM).

During the SCM, Dr. Norhayati Ahmad, co-leader for the BSN Biodiversity research thrust presented updates on the ongoing initiatives and future planned activities under the biodiversity research thrust with BSN partner Universities.

The visit also included a collaborative meeting with researchers from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Mulawarman.

Dr. Salwa Khalid from the UBD's Institute for Biod

Dr. Salwa Khalid from the UBD's Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) proudly served as a national facilitator, facilitating the environment sector, at the National Bridging Workshop (NBW) held from 22–24 April 2025.

The NBW was co-organized by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, bringing together key stakeholders from the human health, animal health, and environmental sectors under the One Health approach.

One Health is a collaborative framework that recognizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment. It emphasizes that to effectively prevent and respond to health threats — such as emerging diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental challenges — requires coordinated, cross-sectoral action.

Over three impactful days, the participants worked to identify collaboration gaps, plan actions, and develop a joint roadmap to strengthen multisectoral coordination and bring the One Health approach into practice.

This workshop marks a significant stepping stone towards the future of One Health in Brunei.

@mohbrunei
@mprt_brunei

#onehealth #environmentalhealth #animalhealth #humanhealth

Our IBER research assistants, Mr. Joremy Tony and

Our IBER research assistants, Mr. Joremy Tony and Ms. Farah Dinah Abd Rahman, took part in a 2-day Crocodile Species Management Workshop held on April 22 & 24, 2025.

The event was co-organised by the Forestry Department of the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism and the U.S. Embassy in Brunei Darussalam under the U.S. Department of State's U.S. Speaker Programme, featuring expert insights from crocodilian specialist Dr. Steven G. Platt.

A big thank you to the organisers for this incredible learning opportunity!

@forestry.brunei
@usembassybsb

Celebrating Hari Raya in Style! UBD's PAPRSB Inst

Celebrating Hari Raya in Style!

UBD's PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences (PAPSRB IHS) and the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) joined forces for the UBD Hari Raya Celebration 2025 at Bridex Banquet Hall, Jerudong — held on April 23.

In a delicious twist, both institutes served up Italian-inspired dishes for the festive occasion!

This vibrant event also marked a special milestone — UBD's 40th Anniversary!

We were honoured by the presence of Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh, Minister of Education, as our Guest of Honour.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us and made the event truly memorable.

@ihs_ubd

The UBD's Office of Assistant Vice Chancellor (Res

The UBD's Office of Assistant Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Sustainability) hosted the Science Panel for Borneo Cluster Leaders Workshop as part of the Brunei Borneo Sustainability Summit (BBSS). The workshop was held from 21-22nd April 2025 at UBD and featured keynote speakers and panel discussions covering various topics, including biodiversity with a focus on Borneo.

The Science Panel for Borneo is convened under the auspices of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and consists of scientists from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia.
Participating in the summit from IBER was Associate Professor Dr. Rahayu Sukmaria Sukri, cluster co-leader of the Science Panel for Borneo Flora, and Dr. Norhayati Ahmad, cluster co-leader of the Science Panel for Borneo Fauna.

@ubd.oavcris

🌍 Earth Day 2025: Celebrating Brunei's Natural

🌍 Earth Day 2025: Celebrating Brunei's Natural Heritage

Earth Day, observed every April 22nd, is a global initiative to promote environmental protection and sustainability. It's a reminder that every action counts in preserving our planet for future generations.

Brunei Darussalam’s lush rainforests—covering over 70% of our land—serve as vital carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change. These forests are not only rich in biodiversity but also essential for our environmental health.

At the forefront of conservation efforts is Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). Through its Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER), UBD conducts pioneering research and educational programmes focused on tropical biodiversity and environmental sustainability. Its two research centres, UBD Botanical Research Centre (UBD BRC) and Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre (KBFSC), also provide hands-on learning experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of our unique biodiversity and ecosystems. These initiatives underscore our commitment to global environmental stewardship.

This Earth Day, let's honour and protect our natural treasures. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for Brunei Darussalam and the world.

Video credits: Zulfadli Mawardi (IBER)

#OurPowerOurPlanet #EarthDay2025 #ProtectForests #ClimateAction #BruneiRainforest #UBD #IBER #Sustainability

We are excited to announce the release of Ferntast

We are excited to announce the release of Ferntastic Brunei: Discover Brunei's Ferns.

This book explores the incredible diversity of ferns in Brunei Darussalam, featuring rare and unique species found only in specific parts of our forests. Packed with stunning photography and expert insights, this beautifully illustrated book takes you on a captivating journey into the fascinating world of ferns.

Don’t miss out on this botanical adventure—grab your copy today!

We are excited to announce the release of Ferntast

We are excited to announce the release of Ferntastic Brunei: Discover Brunei's Ferns.

This book explores the incredible diversity of ferns in Brunei Darussalam, featuring rare and unique species found only in specific parts of our forests. Packed with stunning photography and expert insights, this beautifully illustrated book takes you on a captivating journey into the fascinating world of ferns.

Don’t miss out on this botanical adventure—grab your copy today!

IBER had the pleasure of welcoming delegates from

IBER had the pleasure of welcoming delegates from the Brunei Borneo Sustainability Summit! Highlights included a visit to the UBD Botanical Research Centre, an immersive trip into the mangrove forest, and a taste of authentic Bruneian delicacies. A day full of discovery, nature, and culture!

Join us for an immersive and exciting journey into

Join us for an immersive and exciting journey into the world of mushrooms. The 'Mushroom Discovery Week: Spore to Science' activities include seminars, practical hands-on sessions on identification, and an exciting mushroom foray activity. This workshop offers valuable tools and insights for all levels of experience.

Registration is now open. Reserve your place today.

League of Tropical Universities (LTU) Summit 2025

League of Tropical Universities (LTU) Summit 2025

From 13–16 April 2025, Dr. Hussein Taha and Dr. Mohammad Sabri Mohd Ali represented Universiti Brunei Darussalam at this year’s LTU summit, hosted by Hainan University as the current rotating chair of the LTU.

The LTU was launched in November 2023, bringing together 101 universities and research institutes from 41 countries and regions, including Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Universiti Teknologi Brunei.

It was an honour to take part in this international collaboration among tropical universities. Our sincere thanks to Hainan University for their warm hospitality, sponsorship and excellent hosting! We look forward to continued collaboration and future engagements within the LTU!

We are pleased to share the latest publication co-

We are pleased to share the latest publication co-authored by Dr Salwana Jaafar and AP Dr Rahayu Sukri from IBER, which investigates the secondary metabolites of invasive Acacia species and their potential impact on leaf litter decomposition in Brunei’s heath forests.

This study analyzed pH, total phenolic, and tannin levels in three invasive Acacia species (A. auriculiformis, A. holosericea, and A. mangium) and compared them with a native heath forest tree, Buchanania arborescens.

Results revealed that Acacia species exhibited higher pH, phenolic, and tannin contents than the native species, potentially making their leaves less palatable to herbivores and decomposers. These traits may slow decomposition, influencing nutrient cycling in Acacia-invaded forests.

These findings provide key insights into how invasive species alter ecosystem processes, contributing to a better understanding of their long-term ecological effects.

#UBDResearch #InvasiveSpecies #ForestEcology #NutrientCycling #TropicalForests #IBERResearch

Wildlife of Brunei Darussalam: Sunda Pangolin (Man

Wildlife of Brunei Darussalam: Sunda Pangolin (Manis javanica)

The Sunda Pangolin (Manis javanica) is a solitary, nocturnal mammal native to Southeast Asia. Known for its protective keratin scales, this species primarily feeds on ants and termites, using its long tongue to extract insects from nests. The mother typically carries her young on her tail, keeping them close for warmth and protection as they navigate the forest. Due to poaching and habitat loss, the Sunda Pangolin is listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

Video credits: Salwa Khalid and Ulmar Grafe

Botanical Tidbits 🌿 Psst... Did you know Cis $Botanical Tidbits 🌿 Psst... Did you know Cissus quadrangularis, locally known as 'Patah Tulang,' is not only a versatile vegetable in cooking but also renowned for its powerful medicinal properties. During our visit to Rimba Ilmu, Emeritus Professor Dato Haji Mohamed highlighted how this remarkable plant has been used traditionally to treat bone fractures, aid in joint recovery, and even support digestive health. Additionally, it's known to help reduce inflammation and promote weight loss. @rimbailmuum Video credit: UBD BRC Video editor: Zunnuraina Ramlee #UBDBRC #IBER #UBD #UBDSustainability #FunFact #PatahTulang #PlantMedicine #BotanicResearch #UMRimbaIlmu #Biodiversity #NaturalRemedies #conservation #flora #nature #GreenGossip$

We are delighted to share the latest publication c

We are delighted to share the latest publication co-authored by our IBER researchers (Associate Prof Dr Rahayu Sukri, Dr Norhayati Ahmad and UBD BRC staff), in collaboration with other UBD researchers from the Faculty of Integrated Sciences (FIT), Faculty of Science, and School of Digital Sciences. This study was led by Pg Dr Emeroylariffion Abas and PhD student, Mr. Ashan Ratnayake, from FIT.

Utilising the stingless bees' collections at the UBD BRC, the work explored the acoustic defense mechanisms of Heterotrigona itama, a widely reared stingless bee species valued for its honey. By analyzing the alarm sounds produced by guard bees during intrusions, the research demonstrates how machine learning can be used for intrusion detection. Using a Jetson Nano equipped with a microphone and camera, bee sounds were recorded and processed with Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCCs). Among classification models tested, the K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classifier achieved the highest accuracy (95.54%), proving the effectiveness of sound-based detection as a cost-efficient alternative to image-based monitoring.

This study highlights the potential of bioacoustics and AI in pollinator research, with future applications for real-world colony monitoring under diverse environmental conditions.

#UBDResearch #PollinatorEcology #StinglessBees #Bioacoustics #MachineLearning #IBERResearch

Big thanks to His Excellency Michael Hoy, the Aust

Big thanks to His Excellency Michael Hoy, the Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, for kindly inviting IBER to the Australian High Commission's Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House!

Dr Hussein Taha and Dr Salwa Khalid represented IBER at the event — and a special highlight: Dr Salwa had the opportunity to share our newly launched 'Waterbirds of Brunei Darussalam' poster with His Excellency!

@duta.oz.bn

🌱 TREx 2025 Registration is Now Open! Embark o

🌱 TREx 2025 Registration is Now Open!

Embark on a scientific journey deep into Borneo’s untouched rainforests. Gain hands-on research experience, explore diverse ecosystems, and discover the rich flora and fauna of this pristine habitat.

📢 Limited spots available—sign up today! UBD students may be eligible for support.

📌 Swipe to the next image for quick-access QR links!

✉️ Enquiries? Reach us at office.iber@ubd.edu.bn

See you soon! 🥾

#TREx2025 #TropicalResearch #Biodiversity #IBER #UBD #Brunei #Borneo

When we asked ChatGPT to generate a Ghibli-inspire

When we asked ChatGPT to generate a Ghibli-inspired image based on a photo of the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre...

Thrilled to join UBD team in attending today’s O

Thrilled to join UBD team in attending today’s Open House at Istana Nurul Iman for the royal family’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri meet-and-greet! This annual tradition is a special occasion where citizens, residents, and international visitors come together to meet His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam and the royal family.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!

🌙✨ Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir dan Batin! ✨🌙

Wishing everyone a blessed Eid filled with joy, peace, and prosperity. May this special occasion bring happiness to you and your loved ones.

Best wishes from the Vice Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam, the Office of Assistant Vice Chancellor (Global Engagement), and the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (including the UBD Botanical Research Centre, and the Kuala Belalong Field Studies Centre).

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