Len calls for robust approach to hit RM1m target

KUCHING: Agencies have been told to find ways to boost the sales of non-timber forest products (NTFP) at the Community Forestry Development Carnival to achieve the long-awaited RM1 million sales target.

In stating this, Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh emphasised the urgency for various government agencies involved with the Ministry to look for a more robust approach.

“The carnival was held since 2016, it’s been eight years, and we haven’t hit a million in sales.

“We need to set a target not just in terms of the number of participants but also in terms of sales. How do we achieve this? By having a good product, a compelling story, and excellent packaging,” said Len.

He said this during the launching of the Community Forestry Development Carnival 2024 held here on Saturday.

He also said that the key to increasing sales lies in improving the quality and marketability of products.
“This would involve a holistic approach, from sourcing raw materials to the final product, ensuring high standards in quality and craftsmanship to make these products competitive in the market.

“How do you quantify the target? Not only in terms of participation but in terms of dollars and cents. It will be translated into the people who will produce it as well,” he said.

Len also recognised the efforts made in introducing online business marketing, but insisted that further steps need to be taken to boost sales and increase global competitiveness.

“Maybe what we have been doing so far is not effective. If not, we have to look at how we can be more effective,” he said.

The carnival organised by the Sarawak Forestry Department involves various forestry product sectors, especially NTFP, eco-tourism products, homestay programmes, and more, involving communities from all over Sarawak.

This includes areas such as the Heart of Borneo (HOB), Biosphere Reserves, peatlands, wetlands, and watersheds, stretching from Lundu to Ba’kelalan, Lawas.

The event involves 100 local community members from 47 villages, including Jangkar Lundu, Kpg. Singai in Bau, Nanga Delok in Batang Ai, Sri Aman, Pusa and Maludam, Kuala Rajang and Meradong in Sarikei, Kampung Bom and Pulau Bruit in Mukah, Sg. Asap and Nanga Tekalit in Bintulu, Long Bedian in Miri, Kuala Lawas and Limbang, and others.

It also includes agencies such as Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development.