Kuala lumpur: Melaka has been granted an allocation of RM9.801 million under the Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Conservation (EFT) initiative for 2026 to enhance biodiversity conservation and promote environmental sustainability within the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, announced that the allocation cheque was presented during his courtesy call on Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusof at the Seri Negara Complex. The minister highlighted that the EFT 2026 funds are being disbursed in stages, with RM1.206 million paid in February and the remaining RM8.595 million distributed this month.

Arthur emphasized the Federal Government's appreciation for the Melaka state government's effective utilization of previous EFT allocations. Among the achievements from these funds was the preparation of dossiers for 15 geosites in Melaka, aimed at securing National Geopark recognition.

Additionally, Arthur noted that Melaka has been chosen as the host state for the 2026 National Environment Day (HASN) celebration, set for mid-September. This event aims to boost environmental education and awareness among the public while acknowledging contributions from various sectors in environmental preservation and conservation efforts.

In other developments, Arthur reported that the Melaka State e-Tanah system, initiated through a Public-Private Partnership, commenced operations on June 18 and opened to the public on June 22. As of June 30, the system has processed 8,133 transactions. The ministry plans to monitor its implementation up to the end of the concession period in 2039 to ensure efficient land administration services for Melaka residents.

Present at the courtesy call were Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability secretary-general Datuk Aniz Rizana Zainudin and senior management from the ministry and department.