Penang, Malaysia – 12 November 2024 – SEAMEO BIOTROP and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) launched the Agro-Eco-Edu-Tourism (AEET) prototypes aimed at advancing biodiversity conservation through innovative education and sustainable tourism. The regional seminar and prototype launch, held at USM in Penang, brought together over 250 participants both online and offline from Southeast Asia and beyond.

The event, which attracted attendees from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, China, Yemen, and other countries, showcased the successful development of five AEET prototypes. These models, including an Aquatic Garden, Mushroom Cottage, AquaBloom Garden, Berries Corner, and Worm Haven, serve as outdoors prototype learning centers promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable agricultural practices.

The seminar featured talks on the integration of agro-eco-edu-tourism with biodiversity conservation efforts. The speaker including Dr. Rhomi Ardiansyah from Gadjah Mada University, who discussed AEET's implementation in Indonesia as an educational model for conservation, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darlina Md. Naim from USM who shared insights into the development of AEET prototypes at USM, emphasizing their role in both environmental education and community empowerment.

In her opening remarks, Ms Sri Widayanti, Officer in Charge of the Deputy Director for Administration at SEAMEO BIOTROP, stressed the importance of integrating education with hands-on conservation practices, noting that these AEET prototypes will provide a space for visitors to engage with biodiversity outside the traditional classroom setting. "These prototypes are not just about learning; they’re about inspiring action to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity," she stated.

The seminar highlighted the growing importance of eco-tourism as a tool for environmental education. Participants also explored the potential of AEET to empower local communities by fostering a deeper connection to the environment while simultaneously promoting sustainable tourism and agricultural practices.

The launch of the AEET prototypes marks a major milestone for SEAMEO BIOTROP's ongoing efforts to promote biodiversity conservation through education. The prototypes are designed to offer immersive, interactive learning experiences, supporting SEAMEO BIOTROP’s mission to provide a sustainable, educational framework for future generations.

Looking ahead, the program aims to expand the AEET initiative regionally and internationally, offering a replicable model for integrating education, conservation, and tourism. As Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darlina Md. Naim noted, the goal is to ensure these prototypes grow into resilient, sustainable spaces that promote lasting environmental stewardship. The launch and seminar concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to work together in preserving Southeast Asia's rich natural heritage. (hcn, ds)