Bandar Seri Begawan, 5th December 2025 – The Brunei Institute of Leadership and Islamic Finance (BILIF), with the support of the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), organised a tree planting initiative at the UBD Botanical Research Centre (UBD BRC).
The activity, themed “Roots of Growth,” was held in conjunction with BILIF’s 15th Anniversary celebrations and World Tree Day; a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of trees and forests. It highlights the crucial role trees play in maintaining ecological balance, combating climate change, and improving human well-being.
The tree planting initiative contributed to the ex-situ conservation of four native tree species; Gymnostoma nobile, Agathis borneensis, Cotylelobium burckii and Hopea vacciniifolia with the planting of 15 saplings of high conservation value within the UBD BRC grounds, supporting biodiversity enhancement and campus greening efforts.
In his welcoming remarks, Afero Eswandy Mohamad, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BILIF, shared that the initiative symbolised the organisation’s dedication to creating long-term positive environmental impact. He highlighted that the collaboration with IBER reflects BILIF’s continuous efforts to support sustainability, conservation research, and the protection of Brunei Darussalam’s natural heritage for the benefit of present and future generations.
As the designated Centre of Excellence for the finance industry in Brunei Darussalam, BILIF remains committed to its mission of nurturing future leaders, professionals, and innovators—particularly in the fields of leadership and Islamic finance—through high-quality experiential programmes, training, and strategic initiatives that embrace social responsibility and sustainable development.
For more information about BILIF’s programmes and activities, please visit www.bilif.com.bn or follow @bilif.bn on Instagram.

