News Published: 24 September 2024

The first ever Biosecurity and Plant Health Forum focusing on the Southeast Asia region was hosted by SEABG Network together with the IPSN 

In September this year, the Southeast Asian Botanic Garden (SEABG) Network, in collaboration with the International Plant Sentinel Network (IPSN), hosted the first ever Biosecurity and Plant Health Forum focusing on the Southeast Asia region. This landmark event was the first of its kind specifically designed for botanic gardens of the region, and emphasized an important collation between two BGCI networks.

The forum brought together over 30 participants from six countries across the region, providing a valuable opportunity to:

• Learn about the IPSN and its international efforts,
• Explore biosecurity practices in collection management,
• Share the region’s experiences and expertise,
• Brainstorm on current issues and challenges on the region, and
• Prioritise future actions on biosecurity and plant health for Southeast Asia

Outcomes and Future Plans  

During the forum, participants identified key needs, issues, and information gaps for improving plant health and biosecurity in Southeast Asia. From this input, a Post-Forum Action Plan was developed, outlining several priorities to address these challenges at national and regional scales.  Actionable steps, including reviewing relevant local policies, creating a repository of biosecurity information, and setting up follow-up sessions were planned for 2025.  

A key highlight of the forum was the expansion of the IPSN’s reach within the region, with three new members from the Philippines joining the network. This milestone reflects the growing momentum toward fostering collaboration and strengthening biosecurity efforts across Southeast Asia. 

Looking ahead, the SEABG Network and IPSN are committed to continue collaborating with partners in Southeast Asia towards the Post-Forum Action Plan, with the goal of developing a Plant Health and Biosecurity Project tailored to the needs of the region.

Stay Connected

Stay rooted to the SEABG Facebook page for announcements about upcoming activities for biosecurity and plant health in Southeast Asia.

If you missed the forum but would like to be notified about meetings and events in the future, please reach out to itxaso.quintana@bgci.org.