IUCN is the world’s largest and most diverse network of governments and civil society, and works to advance sustainable development and promote conservation. It is renowned for publishing the IUCN Red List, the global standard for classifying species at high risk of extinction.

Amran Hamzah was voted to the council at the World Conservation Congress convened in Abu Dhabi from Oct 9 to Oct 15.

Speaking to FMT, Amran said he was honoured to be re-elected, and that the appointment came with a significant responsibility to serve IUCN in an ambassadorial capacity.

Amran previously served as a regional councillor for the 2016-2021 term, and remains the first and only Malaysian to be elected to the post.

He said his re-election as a regional councillor for another four years was particularly important at a time when the world is grappling with biodiversity loss, climate change, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters.

“I hope that my re-election will inspire young Malaysians to actively engage in conservation efforts, both nationally and on the international stage,” he added.

Amran credited his pitch on creating awareness and increasing support for the relatively underrepresented Asean member states for his re-election.

He said Asean was crucial in terms of biodiversity conservation as it faced serious threats from biodiversity loss, climate change and natural disasters.

He also called for the facilitation of private sector investments in conservation and community-driven conservation.

And while Asean is his primary focus, Amran also plans to get the ball rolling at home.

“I want to assist in setting up an IUCN National Committee for Malaysia as leverage to expand IUCN’s programmes and funding opportunities to the country,” he said.

He also wants to assist in setting up an IUCN office in Malaysia, preferably in Sarawak or Sabah.

“This is to strengthen collaboration and celebrate excellence in the management of protected and conserved areas and conservation efforts in East Malaysia.”