Kuching to host congress on reptiles and amphibians

KUCHING: Experts on reptiles and amphibians will converge here for the 10th World Congress of Herpetology 2024 (WCH10) on Aug 5-9.

The event is set to shine the spotlight on some of the world’s most eminent herpetologists and provide a platform for budding herpetologists to gain valuable insights and networking opportunities.

It will see experts from around the globe sharing their knowledge, exchanging ideas, and addressing pressing issues facing amphibians and reptiles worldwide.

“Sarawak with its rich biodiversity and a diverse range of amphibians and reptiles, allows congress participants to explore and study unique species in their natural habitat, providing a hands-on experience,” said WCH10 Congress Director Prof Dr. Indraneil Das in a statement.

“Additionally, the congress can serve as a platform to discuss and strategise conservation efforts for endangered amphibians and reptiles, via collaboration among herpetologists, conservationists, and policymakers which can lead to effective conservation initiatives.

“We encourage everyone interested in herpetology to join us for this exciting event.”

Indraneil said the congress will feature a comprehensive programme of plenary sessions, symposia, workshops, and poster presentations, covering a wide range of topics in herpetology.

He also said scientists and experts from across the globe will share their insights on diverse subjects, including conservation biology, ecology, evolution, genetics and physiology.

“The WCH10 is honoured to host an esteemed panel of plenary speakers, each representing the pinnacle of herpetological research and ready to share their expertise on a range of critical topics affecting amphibians and reptiles worldwide.

“These esteemed experts will delve into a range of critical topics affecting amphibians and reptiles, including Dr. Emma Sherratt, Prof. Madhava Meegaskumbura, Julie Hanta Razafimanahaka, Dr. Jason R. Rohr and Datuk Dr. Dionysius S.K. Sharma,” he said.

In recognition of the importance of fostering the next generation of herpetologists, the WCH10 has secured funding from various organisations including Global Women in Herpetology, Carl Gans Foundation, 10WCH – Sarawak State Government, 1StopBorneo Wildlife, World Congress of Herpetology, and GARD24.

This funding will provide travel grants and other forms of support to enable students and early career researchers to attend this important gathering.

WCH10 is organised by the World Congress of Herpetology (WCH) and the Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), in conjunction with the Global Amphibian and Reptile Disease Conference (GARD2024) and supported by Business Events Sarawak, AG ARK, and the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture.

For more information about WCH10 and to register for the event, visit the official website at 2024wch10.com.