OVERVIEW
The 12th instalment of the ASEF University marked the first time its programme had focused on the environment. Held over two weeks, the programme brought together 32 participants, who attended lectures given by academics and practitioners on such topics as the Kyoto Protocol and the creation of sustainable cities. The participants consisted of university students of forestry, agricultural science, environmental studies, and geography, and they were given opportunities to exchange views in smaller working groups on various issues flowing from the lecture topics, such as a possible vision for Asia-Europe co-operation towards environmental sustainability.
Another highlight of the programme was a four-day field study session organised at the Kuala Belalong Field-Studies Centre, where participants jointly conducted experiments and engaged in the following practical lessons:
– Diversity, Movements And Ecology Of Small Mammals In The Forest Canopy
– Terrestrial Space In The Belalong Rainforest
– Dynamic Studies Of The Mixed Dipterocarp Forest Of Kuala Belalong
– The Ecology And Management Of Tropical Rainforest Streams And Rivers
Through the field study session, participants were able to apply their theoretical knowledge and experience the diversity of the tropical rainforest.
At the close of the programme, participants said they had emerged with heightened awareness of the environmental developments in Asia and Europe. They also appreciated the rare opportunity to appreciate the rich Bruneian culture and heritage.
GUEST OF HONOUR
HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah ibni Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muzzaddin Waddaulah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister, Brunei
