18 May 2026, Fraser’s Hill, Pahang – WWF-Malaysia and CIMB Islamic today launched the Fraser’s Hill Coffee Table Book, Permata Negeri Pahang, Fraser’s Hill marking a key milestone in their ongoing collaboration to support conservation efforts in the Fraser’s Hill Forest Complex.

Photo (c) Rahana Husin/ WWF-Malaysia

The launch was officiated by Yang Berhormat Leong Yu Man, Pahang State EXCO for Unity, Tourism and Culture on behalf of Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, Menteri Besar Pahang underscoring the state’s continued commitment to protecting one of Peninsular Malaysia’s most important highland ecosystems. 

Spanning over 76,000 hectares, the Fraser’s Hill Forest Complex is a critical biodiversity landscape that supports endemic species and functions as a vital water catchment for surrounding communities. It is also part of the Central Forest Spine, a key ecological network essential to maintaining environmental connectivity across Peninsular Malaysia.

The coffee table book brings together years of scientific research, including findings from a comprehensive botanical inventory conducted under the WWF-Malaysia and CIMB Islamic partnership. It documents the richness of the area’s flora, provides insights into ecosystem functions, and highlights the importance of long-term conservation planning.

Speaking at the launch, Yang Berhormat Leong Yu Man emphasised the importance of balancing development with environmental protection. “Fraser’s Hill is not only a natural treasure for the State of Pahang, but a critical ecosystem that supports biodiversity and water security. Efforts such as this publication are important in strengthening our understanding and guiding future conservation efforts.”

Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman of WWF-Malaysia, highlighted that science-based research, along with collaboration with other key stakeholders such as the Pahang State Government and CIMB Islamic, played a significant role in advancing conservation efforts in Fraser’s Hill.

“This book reflects the outcome of sustained fieldwork, research, and collaboration. It brings together valuable knowledge that supports better conservation planning and helps deepen public understanding of the Fraser’s Hill ecosystem.” 

Encik Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic, noted the importance of translating sustainability commitments into tangible outcomes. “Our partnership with WWF-Malaysia reflects how the private sector can play a meaningful role in advancing conservation efforts. While this book is one of the outcomes of our collaboration, the project itself is rooted in research, fieldwork, and long-term environmental stewardship. As the third publication in the Jewel series following Jewel of Kedah: Hutan Ulu Muda and Jewel of Terengganu: Setiu Wetlands, it underscores CIMB Islamic’s continued commitment to preserving Malaysia’s ecologically significant landscapes.”

Beyond documenting biodiversity, the publication also reflects a broader approach to conservation that integrates science, policy, and community engagement. It serves as both a visual and knowledge resource for policymakers, researchers, and the public.

The launch reinforces the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in protecting Malaysia’s natural heritage and highlights the role of long-term partnerships in delivering measurable conservation outcomes.

WWF-Malaysia and CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad celebrating the launch of the Fraser’s Hill Coffee Table Book. Photo © Rahana Husin / WWF-Malaysia

Both photos above, from left: Sophia Lim, Executive Director/ CEO of WWF-Malaysia; Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman of WWF-Malaysia; Yang Berhormat Leong Yu Man, Pahang State EXCO for Unity, Tourism and Culture; Datin Azlin Mahmad, Chairperson of CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad; Ahmad Shariman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad. Photos (c) Rahana Husin/ WWF-Malaysia

From left: Ahmed Baqar Rehman, Board Member of CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad; Sophia Lim, Executive Director / CEO of WWF-Malaysia; Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman of WWF-Malaysia; Yang Berhormat Leong Yu Man, Pahang State EXCO for Unity, Tourism and Culture; Datin Azlin Mahmad, Chairperson of CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad; Ahmad Shariman Mohd Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad. Photo © Rahana Husin / WWF-Malaysia

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About WWF-Malaysia
Established in 1972, WWF-Malaysia is part of WWF, the international conservation organisation. Working to sustain the natural world for the benefit of people and wildlife, WWF-Malaysia’s efforts to conserve nature focus on six major goals - forests, oceans, wildlife, food, climate and energy, as well as freshwater – and three key drivers of environmental problems – markets, finance and governance. Our mission is to stop the degradation of the earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. Find our latest news here

About CIMB Islamic
CIMB Islamic is a leading Islamic financial institution committed to advancing sustainable development through responsible banking and environmental stewardship.

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