Kota Kinabalu: The Eagles Rugby Club Sandakan (ERC) launched the International Borneo Sevens 2025 rugby tournament with a symbolic tree planting ceremony at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC).
In their statement, ERC said part of the tournament’s ‘Green Initiative’ is their dedication to sustainability and aligns with their broader efforts to promote environmental responsibility.
Dubbed ‘The Greenest Sevens in the World,’ the prestigious tournament will take place in April 2025, featuring a series of environmentally conscious events leading up to the main competition.
“This year’s edition is particularly significant as it marks the 20th anniversary of the International Borneo Sevens, celebrating two decades of rugby excellence and ecological responsibility.
“Total of 20 tree saplings were planted during the launch ceremony, symbolising the collective effort to protect the environment while promoting sportsmanship and community collaboration.
“The initiative contributes to carbon sequestration, oxygen production, air purification, water conservation, and wildlife habitat preservation,” it said.
ERC also extended its gratitude to the Sabah Forestry Department for facilitating the event and donating 20 fruit tree saplings, primarily fig species, for the planting ceremony.
Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (R&D), Dr. Arthur Chung, commended ERC for its commitment to both sports development and environmental sustainability.
“We know that you have contributed significantly to the development of rugby in Sabah. To commemorate this 20th anniversary, ERC has chosen to plant trees in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Though a simple act, this initiative carries great significance and aligns with Malaysia’s national campaign towards a greener future,” he said.
ERC President Velayuthan Tan emphasised the club’s dedication to sustainability, expressing appreciation for sponsors who have supported both the tree planting programme and the tournament.
Organising Chairman of the tree planting programme, Jonathan Tan, highlighted the deeper purpose behind the initiative, stating, “This programme is about giving back to the community and addressing carbon offset. Community engagement is our priority, and this marks the first time many of our corporate sponsors have visited a rainforest. We hope it won’t be the last.”
Manager of the Rainforest Discovery Centre, Bernadette Joeman also underscored the importance of integrating sports with environmental awareness.
“This collaboration between ERC, SFD, and RDC for the club’s 20th anniversary is an excellent effort. It’s heartening to see corporate sponsors actively participating in conservation. “We planted six species today, including Tarap Hutan and fig trees, which serve as a ‘supermarket of the rainforest’ for wildlife. “We also planted Bambangan in hopes of providing food and shelter for forest animals,” she said.
The ceremony was attended by Sandakan Municipal Council President Walter Kenson and representatives from major tournament sponsors.
With a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, the International Borneo Sevens 2025 is set to make a lasting impact, proving that sports and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
