PROJECTS
Ara Research's work recognises the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement betweeen government, non-governmental entities and civil society organisations. In particular, we see public and community participation as the lynchpin for success in many projects. Therefore, education and outreach are also within our scope of work.
CURRENT PROJECTS
01
ENHANCING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE EIA REVIEW PROCESS
This programme builds on a previous initiative from 2023 that focused on strengthening public participation in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. The earlier project worked with selected civil society organisations (CSOs) to build their capacity to review EIA reports and support communities in doing the same. It included a systematic assessment of the EIA process in Peninsular Malaysia—particularly the public participation component—using document reviews, existing research, and interviews with key stakeholders.
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The current programme continues this work by helping the public better understand and engage with the EIA process. It aims to improve transparency and accountability in how EIAs are prepared, reviewed, and enforced. The programme also develops policy and legal recommendations to strengthen Malaysia’s EIA framework and support more sustainable development outcomes.
02
RIVER REVITALISATION
Our ongoing River Revitalisation Programme serves as a research and knowledge platform to support efforts in improving river water quality in Penang. Through field studies and legal assessments, we provide evidence-based insights on pollution sources, mitigation strategies, and regulatory gaps, including recommendations on the way forward.
Working in close collaboration with the Penang State Government, the City Council, and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS), the programme serves as a resource for decision makers, informing policies and on-ground actions to restore and protect the state’s river systems.
PAST PROJECTS
01
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
IN RIVER REVITALISATION
Focusing on the Sungai Kelian and Sungai Ara/Sungai Keluang, the project aims to revitalize these rivers by facilitating community engagement, collaborating with various government agencies, and forming partnerships between community and local government. For Sungai Kelian, the project works with the Friends of Sungai Kelian (FoSK) and Tanjung Bungah Resident Association (TBRA) to improve the river reserve for community use and enjoyment.
02
SUSTAINABLE FARMING ON PENANG HILL
This is a research project that aims to demonstrate a proof of concept that there are viable, ecologically-sound and environmentally benign methods of producing healthy food which are compatible with forest environments and can contribute to the conservation of fragile hill ecosystems.
The first phase of the project (full title: "Greening Farming on Penang Hill Through the Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture and Food Forests") comprises a baseline spatial mapping of farms as well as a community survey of farmers documenting the current status of farming activities, and gaining an understanding of the underlying social, environmental and economic issues associated with hill agriculture on the eastern slopes of Penang Hill.
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03
FISHERIES: A MALAYSIA FEASIBILITY STUDY
Conducted a feasibility study for an international marine advocacy group focused on fisheries policy at national or regional government levels, to help them determine whether to establish a physical presence in Malaysia to advocate for a more resilient food security by enhancing the management of coastal fisheries and livelihoods.
The feasibility study is a pertinent document that contains information about the state of play in Malaysia with regards to:
(1) fisheries contributions to food security, nutrition and livelihoods;
(2) policy background on fisheries, aquaculture and marine conservation;
(3) ocean climate risks and policy.
04
MIDTERM REVIEW OF COMMUNITY PROJECTS
The Midterm Review (MTR) of community small grants projects in Malaysia was conducted to assess progress towards expected results, overall effectiveness, and alignment with project objectives at the mid-point of implementation. In line with UNDP and GEF evaluation guidelines, the review adopted a participatory approach, incorporating field visits and consultations with stakeholders and project beneficiaries.
This approach ensured that community perspectives and lived experiences were integrated into the analysis, providing a comprehensive and balanced assessment of the projects’ relevance, efficiency, sustainability, and emerging impact. Findings from the review aim to inform adaptive management and enhance the delivery of project outcomes.
05
ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY PROFILING
The field research and stakeholder engagement provided a brief profile of the condition of key riverine and marine assets, along with a preliminary assessment of the underlying causes of environmental degradation based on existing reports and observations. The study also mapped relevant stakeholders, including key institutions, site managers, and local environmental groups actively operating in these areas. As an outcome of this work, the study facilitated a funded partnership to undertake targeted environmental interventions and community education outreach programmes.