Full implementation of ePASS by June 2027

KUCHING, 15 September: Sarawak set a target to fully implement the use of Electronic Transfer Passes (ePASS) across the state by June 2027, to replace paper-based timber transfer pass systems with traceable digital formats.

The ePASS system developed under the Sarawak Forest Results and Traceability System (REVLOG) was inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan at the Sarawak Forest Department Emergency Service Awards 2025 and 2026 Awards Ceremony here, in Sheraton Hotel, on Tuesday.

The implementation of this new digital system will change the conventional workflow which previously required manual submission, verification by the Sarawak Forest Department (FDS) and physical inspection before a pre-print pass was issued.

Through ePASS, applications are made online before data is downloaded to the field device.

After the physical examination is completed, the ePASS is issued immediately and printed directly on site using a mobile printer.

The system is also supported by geographical location traceability (GPS) and QR code verification to ensure transparency of the state log supply chain as well as meet the requirements of the Log Weakness Assurance System (TLAS).

The implementation will be carried out in phases starting from Phase 1 (January-February 2027) in Kapit, Sibu and Sarikei Region; Phase 2 (March-April 2027) in Bintulu, Miri and Limbang Region; and Phase 3 (May-June 2027) in Kuching and Sri Aman Region before being fully implemented in June 2027.

Commenting on the modernization of forest technology, Awang Central who is also the Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development II stressed that department residents should be prepared to improve skills as digital transformation progresses.

"The work environment is changing. Technology is developing rapidly, people's expectations are rising and the challenges faced by civil servants are also becoming more complex.

"Therefore, every officer must always be prepared to improve his knowledge and skills, adapt to change and dare to explore new approaches in the performance of his duties", he said.

He also praised the Sarawak Forest Department for its active strategic cooperation with international institutions to strengthen local technology and labour capacity.

"It includes CTFS-ForestGEO involving the Smithsonian Institution, Harvard University and Osaka University; Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS); the Malaysian Forest Research Institute (FRIM); as well as Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan.

"Cooperation has also been established with Arbonaut Ltd., Finland; Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre (SAIC); Sarawak Energy Berhad; and various forestry industry partners", he added.

Central Awang urges that each such international collaboration has a direct impact on the capacity development of local officials.

"I hope more local officials get exposure and opportunities to develop expertise through this cooperation so that in the long run, we can build our own capacity and capabilities", he said. - TVS