NREB: No flaring, venting hydrocarbon without Sarawak consent

NREB officers with trainers from Bureau Veritas (M) Sdn Bhd during the OGDP and FVMP workshop at Pullman Hotel Kuching.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, April 4: Companies in Sarawak cannot flare or vent hydrocarbons without written consent from the Controller of Environmental Quality.

The rule is set under the Flaring and Venting Rules 2025, issued through the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance 2023. Consent is only granted after a rigorous review of the Flaring and Venting Management Plan (FVMP) — and, where applicable, the Oil and Gas Development Plan (OGDP).

To strengthen enforcement, the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak held a one-day workshop at Pullman Hotel Kuching recently. Twenty officers were trained to assess FVMP and OGDP submissions thoroughly and ensure legal compliance.

Head of the Policy and Planning Division at NREB, Rahmah Biak, said every consent that the Board issues carry the weight of law and the trust of the people of Sarawak.

“A poorly informed approval can lead to years of excess emissions. A well-informed review can prevent environmental harm before it happens,” she reportedly said when reading the opening remarks of the Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak.

The workshop, led by experts from Bureau Veritas (M) Sdn Bhd, included practical sessions, interactive discussions, and industry insights to equip officers with the knowledge to make legally sound and environmentally responsible decisions.

The initiative highlights Sarawak’s commitment to transparent, accountable, and law-backed environmental governance, keeping hydrocarbon operations in check and emissions under control. — DayakDaily