Bandar Seri Begawan - The World Forestry Day 2010 was observed yesterday and Brunei Darussalam ushered in the event by officially opening the newest recreational destination for ecotourism at the Berakas Forest Reserve.

The Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya, was at hand to officiate the ceremony and took part in planting a tree at the new site alongside other guests.

This year's World Forestry Day theme "Forest: Source of Biodiversity Wealth" highlights the extinction of biological diversity caused by climate change, stemming from forest clearing and unsustainable land use practices.

The message also emphasises Brunei Darussalam's commitment to supporting the Convention of Biological Diversity's (CBD) vision in reducing the rate of biological extinction.

At the same time, the efforts made will also help improve the nation's image as a country that is committed to preserving its biodiversity from extinction and ensuring that the biodiversity source is managed properly for the nation's economic development.

The theme also signifies the importance of economic opportunities that can be explored such as eco-tourism as well as bioproducts apart from heightening awareness on the need to protect and preserve biodiversity.

The new site, where construction began in 2008 at a cost of $800,000, includes an outdoor gym, a jogging track as well as playgrounds for younger visitors.

One of the interesting aspects of the new park is the absence of rubbish bins.

The aim of not placing the rubbish bins, according to Noralinda Ibrahim from the Forestry Department, is to instil in visitors the habit of bringing their rubbish home.

"It's psychological," she said and further emphasised that visitors need to learn not to leave their rubbish behind.

It was also stated that those who are caught littering could be fined under the Forest Act (Amendment Order 2007).

World Forestry Day was first celebrated in 1972 worldwide and Brunei Darussalam followed suit in 1983.

This year, World Forestry Day was also celebrated with 100 school children hailing from 23 secondary schools throughout the nation.

The students will be camping at the new site for most of the school holiday duration and will participate in team building programmes and listen to talks delivered by private and government institutions.

The programme, started in 1992, is to increase awareness among the youths on the importance of forest conservation and how it contributes to the country's socioeconomic growth and development.