DUN Sarawak: RM1.4 million strengthened Sarawak conservation cooperation

KUCHING, 12 Oct: The Sarawak Government plans to allocate RM1.4 million next year to strengthen international cooperation in biodiversity conservation, including through UNESCO's Delta Sarawak Global Geopark and the Heart of Borneo Initiative.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the strategic cooperation is among the state's efforts to support biodiversity conservation on a global scale, as well as enhance ecotourism and environmental education.

"The Government will strengthen international cooperation through UNESCO's Delta Sarawak Global Geopark which gained recognition in 2026 and the Heart of Borneo Initiative.

"To support this effort, RM1.4 million will be allocated next year to ensure that Sarawak continues to play a key role in international conservation and sustainable development", he said while presenting Sarawak Budget 2027 at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Conference today.

At the same time, he said, the government will continue to protect Sarawak's forests from illegal invasions and unsustainable exploitation.

Enforcement efforts will be strengthened through the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-based wood forensic identification technology.

"This technology will allow law enforcement agencies to identify wood species in a matter of seconds, protect the state's crops and maintain Sarawak's reputation for the validity and sustainability of the timber industry.

"For this purpose, RM2 million will be allocated next year", he said.

Additionally, the Government of Sarawak will continue to expand and strengthen the Sustainable Forest (HSK) which is a beacon for Sarawak's biodiversity.

Under this budget, RM4.22 million has been allocated to achieve the goal and ensure that Sarawak's forests continue to be preserved as a lasting heritage.