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SANDAKAN: The latest issue of Sandakania  Volume 27, a scientific journal focusing on plant systematics, morphology and natural history, has officially been published recently by the Forest Research Centre of the Sabah Forestry Department. 

This special commemorative edition is dedicated to Dr Wong Khoon Meng, founder of Sandakania, which was first introduced in 1992. 

Wong also spearheaded Sabah’s contribution to the Tree Flora of Sabah and Sarawak (TFSS) project and served as Curator of the Sandakan Herbarium from 1992 to 1995.

Despite completing his tenure, Wong continued contributing actively to the journal as an adviser and author of numerous scientific articles over the years.

The publication of Volume 27 was led by the journal’s editorial committee chaired by Dr Arthur Y.C. Chung, with Dr Joan T. Pereira serving as Editor and Alviana Damit as Layout and Copy Editor. The commemorative volume also featured guest editors Dr Louise Neo and Dr Chen Junhao from Singapore Botanic Gardens, alongside Dr Goh Wei Lim from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Utar).

Containing 24 scientific articles across 463 pages, the edition is the largest and most comprehensive volume published to date. The journal covers a wide range of topics, including plant systematics, botany, ecology, conservation and natural history, reflecting Dr Wong’s lifelong contributions and interests in Borneo, Southeast Asia and the wider Malesian region.

Contributions were made by local and international experts, including several of Dr Wong’s former postgraduate students. The publication was funded by Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES).

The editorial committee reaffirmed its commitment to promoting high-quality scientific research that enhances understanding of Sabah and Borneo’s flora while advancing botanical studies and biodiversity conservation.

Closely linked to this mission are Sandakania and the Sandakan Herbarium, both of which continue to serve as important pillars of plant research, documentation and conservation in the region.