Latest news with #AhmadIsmail
The Star
03-07-2025
- Science
- The Star
We need more experts in plant biodiversity, says academician
PETALING JAYA: Amid multiple threats to the survival of plant species in Malaysia, the country is facing a lack of experts to work on biodiversity, says Malaysian Ecological Association president Prof Dr Ahmad Ismail. There is an inadequate number of experts in this field, he said. He said this problem is rooted in the lack of funds to support research and development of new talents in the field of biodiversity. 'When we don't have enough people and money, it would also be difficult to do research, especially biodiversity work mostly in the field,' he said. Prof Ahmad added that while regional estimates report about 8,300 vascular plant species in Peninsular Malaysia and around 12,000 in Sabah and Sarawak, the national total is estimated at 15,000 due to significant species overlap across regions. 'For example, Mount Kinabalu in Sabah alone has recorded over 5,000 plant species, with 40% being endemic. 'This is about the richness of plants in Malaysia. But those are mostly old data that were studied by foreign scientists. "If we ratio plant species with our local botanists, the number is very low,' he said, urging for more to be done in recruiting young talents in biodiversity conservation. He also pointed out that while laws exist to protect Malaysia's natural resources, the lack of research and experts is concerning, especially given the country's uniquely diverse plant life. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, from 1998 until 2025, a total of 193 plant species in Malaysia were categorised as critically endangered, 423 as endangered and 841 as vulnerable. The Malaysia Biodiversity Information System (MyBIS) database showed that at least 138 plant species in Peninsular Malaysia were identified as critically endangered, vulnerable or endangered. Among the critically endangered plant species are mersawa merah (anisoptera megistocarpa), berus mata buaya (bruguiera hainesii), keruing pipit (dipterocarpus fagineus) and merawan mata kuching merah (hopea ferruginea). Endangered species include bearded paphiopedilum (paphiopedilum barbatum), keladan (dryobalanops oblongifolia) and keruing bukit (dipterocarpus costatus). In the vulnerable category are chengal (neobalanocarpus heimii), agarwood (aquilaria malaccensis) and meranti pa'ang (shorea bracteolata). MyBIS is a one-stop repository database system, which provides and facilitates access to information on biodiversity studies and management in Malaysia under the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry. The data collection in MyBIS involved experts and research officers from government agencies, non-governmental organisations, research institutes and universities. Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) president Meenakshi Raman said that deforestation and uncontrolled conversion of areas for commercial development continue to threaten the survival of plant species in Malaysia. She warned that if the forests are not protected, the important plant species will be gone forever. 'We have a National Biodiversity Policy and national biodiversity action plans but they mean nothing if they are not implemented with legal effectiveness and protection. 'States have the power to designate areas and forests to protect species but they often sacrifice them for timber, plantations and other commodities on the grounds that these are for income,' she said.
The Sun
03-07-2025
- General
- The Sun
Plastic waste persists despite campaigns
PETALING JAYA : Former president of Malaysian Nature Society Prof Dr Ahmad Ismail said despite years of anti-plastic campaigns, rivers and marine ecosystems in Malaysia remain under threat from single-use materials. 'Plastic pollution in the ocean has become a global concern,' he said, adding that the United Nations has called for international agreements to address the matter. Yet at home, the problem persists. 'Plastic from housing areas or urban activities flows into drains, then rivers and eventually reaches the ocean. Once there, the impact on marine life is devastating. 'Fish, turtles, reptiles and other animals mistake plastic for food or become trapped in nets and bags. Plastics also break down into microplastics, which are even more dangerous to aquatic life.' Ahmad also said plastics could carry toxic pollutants and clog drains, increasing the risk of flash floods and triggering a chain of environmental problems. He described the continuous flow of plastic into waterways as a growing ecological threat that must not be ignored. 'People are still using plastic bags even when the government promotes no-plastic-bag usage on certain days. 'There is no data showing any reduction in usage despite the regulations. 'Go to the pasar malam, you'll see plastic bags being used freely. They're convenient and often handed out at no charge,' he said, adding that the rise in household and solid waste reflects the limited success of public campaigns. 'People are buying plastic bags out of convenience, and businesses continue supplying them.' He said this creates a cycle in which retailers cater to customer demand and customers continue to rely on plastic, adding that the habit of bringing reusable bags has not taken root. However, he said some environmentally conscious individuals do take steps to shop with reusable bags. Ahead of International Plastic Bag-Free Day today, he urged Malaysians to start with small, practical changes. 'Public understanding on the dangers of single-use plastic bags must be strengthened.' He suggested supermarkets display reminders for customers to bring their own bags and consider offering free or discounted reusable bags to promote new habits. He also encouraged people to plan their shopping. 'We need to campaign for conscious plastic bag use.' He added individual steps such as keeping a foldable bag in the car or action by the authorities to put up posters could help create awareness. 'Local councils, communities, waste management firms and NGOs must work together to support the government roadmap towards zero single-use plastic by 2030.'
Associated Press
19-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Badwa Capital Announces New Head of Capital Solutions in Continued Expansion of Investment Banking Activities
Firm's Capabilities Deepen Across M&A, IPO, and Capital Structure Advisory with More Than $9 Billion in Closed Transactions Across a Variety of Sectors Badwa obtains CMA license and opens new Riyadh office DUBAI, UAE, June 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Badwa Capital, a leading investment bank and investment firm focused on the Middle East, today announced the appointment of Ahmad Ismail as Head of Capital Solutions, a key practice within the firm's expanding investment banking division. Mr. Ismail joins Badwa after more than 11 years at Moelis & Company, bringing with him a proven track record of transaction execution. With Mr. Ismail's appointment, Badwa will complement its strong M&A practice with additional capital markets capabilities, including independent financial advisory for IPOs and capital structure optimization transactions in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, leveraging the firm's established regulated presence in both markets. Badwa recently opened its Riyadh office and received a license from Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority. 'We are thrilled to welcome Ahmad to Badwa as we expand our capital solutions capabilities and continue delivering extraordinary global talent and unsurpassed regional expertise to our clients,' said Fawzi Jumean, Chairman and Partner at Badwa. 'Ahmad's deep experience and leadership will help us capitalize on strong markets in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. This move reinforces our commitment to providing holistic financial solutions across the entire capital structure.' In addition to its investment banking business, Badwa continues to expand its growth equity investments business, partnering with entrepreneurs in building innovative and sustainable enterprises. About Badwa Capital Founded 15 years ago, Badwa is a leading investment bank and investment firm focused on the Middle East. As an advisor, Badwa Capital helps clients achieve their business and financial objectives through strategic and transformative transactions. The firm's professionals combine world-class execution capabilities with unmatched regional insight to deliver thoughtful and independent advice through all phases of strategic and complex transactions. As an investor, Badwa partners with entrepreneurs in the GCC, supporting them as they build innovative, profitable and sustainable businesses. With offices in Dubai and Riyadh, Badwa is licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority and Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority. Additional information on Badwa Capital may be found at View original content: SOURCE Badwa Capital
Zawya
19-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Badwa Capital announces new Head of Capital Solutions in continued expansion of investment banking activities
Badwa obtains CMA license and opens new Riyadh office DUBAI, UAE – Badwa Capital, a leading investment bank and investment firm focused on the Middle East, today announced the appointment of Ahmad Ismail as Head of Capital Solutions, a key practice within the firm's expanding investment banking division. Mr. Ismail joins Badwa after more than 11 years at Moelis & Company, bringing with him a proven track record of transaction execution. With Mr. Ismail's appointment, Badwa will complement its strong M&A practice with additional capital markets capabilities, including independent financial advisory for IPOs and capital structure optimization transactions in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, leveraging the firm's established regulated presence in both markets. Badwa recently opened its Riyadh office and received a license from Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority. "We are thrilled to welcome Ahmad to Badwa as we expand our capital solutions capabilities and continue delivering extraordinary global talent and unsurpassed regional expertise to our clients,' said Fawzi Jumean, Chairman and Partner at Badwa. "Ahmad's deep experience and leadership will help us capitalize on strong markets in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. This move reinforces our commitment to providing holistic financial solutions across the entire capital structure." In addition to its investment banking business, Badwa continues to expand its growth equity investments business, partnering with entrepreneurs in building innovative and sustainable enterprises. About Badwa Capital Founded 15 years ago, Badwa is a leading investment bank and investment firm focused on the Middle East. As an advisor, Badwa Capital helps clients achieve their business and financial objectives through strategic and transformative transactions. The firm's professionals combine world-class execution capabilities with unmatched regional insight to deliver thoughtful and independent advice through all phases of strategic and complex transactions. As an investor, Badwa partners with entrepreneurs in the GCC, supporting them as they build innovative, profitable and sustainable businesses. With offices in Dubai and Riyadh, Badwa is licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority and Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority. Additional information on Badwa Capital may be found at
