Penang, Malaysia, 15–19 September 2025 — SEAMEO BIOTROP, in collaboration with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and supported by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, successfully launched the Southeast Asia Sustainable Environmental Leadership (SEASEL) 2025 program. Held under the theme “Environmental Leadership and Sustainable Biodiversity”, the program brought together 44 participants from Malaysia, Thailand, China, India, and Iran for a week of leadership training, knowledge sharing, and cross-cultural collaboration.

SEASEL 2025 was designed to strengthen the capacity of young leaders through mentorship, experiential learning, and field-based activities. Participants engaged in lectures, project presentations, cultural exchanges, and field trips to the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), equipping them with both practical knowledge and collaborative networks to champion biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

The program featured a distinguished lineup of resource persons including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darlina Md. Naim (USM), Dr. Doni Yusri (SEAMEO BIOTROP), Dr. Abdul Rais Abdul Latiff (USM), Dr. Elis Rosdiawati (SEAMEO BIOTROP), Prof. Dr. Sreeramanan (USM), Dr. Mercedita Sombilla (SEAMEO SEARCA), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prateep Duengkae (Kasetsart University), Ms. Dewi Suryani (SEAMEO BIOTROP), Ms. Risa Rosita, M.Si. (SEAMEO BIOTROP), Mr. Slamet Widodo (SEAMEO BIOTROP), and Dr. Rosazlina (USM).

In her opening remarks, Dr. Elis Rosdiawati, Deputy Director for Administration of SEAMEO BIOTROP, highlighted SEAMEO BIOTROP’s initiatives in tropical biology, biodiversity, and food security, emphasizing that SEASEL reflects the Centre’s commitment to nurturing future leaders. Representing Prof. Dr. Arif Satria, Rector of IPB University and Governing Board Member of SEAMEO BIOTROP, Dr. Iskandar Siregar, Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Agromaritime Development, delivered his keynote address focusing on the urgency of biodiversity conservation, the threats faced by the region, and the role of youth leadership in sustainability.

Through SEASEL 2025, SEAMEO BIOTROP reaffirmed its dedication to advancing biodiversity education, empowering young leaders, and strengthening regional cooperation. The program stands as a milestone in mobilizing the next generation to shape a sustainable and biodiverse future for Southeast Asia and beyond.