S’wak forestry sector urged to strengthen self-regulation with new environmental compliance mandate

Jack (seated, centre) in a group photo with participants at the closing and certificate presentation ceremony for the 6th ECA training on July 4, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 5: Companies, developers, and project proponents in Sarawak’s forestry sector are expected to practice greater self-accountability in adhering to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and other regulatory directives through self-assessment and self-regulation.

Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak, Jack Liam, emphasised that this is to reduce the enforcement burden on regulatory bodies given that the forestry sector is now mandated for Environmental Compliance Audit (ECA) beginning July 1.

“The full implementation of the Natural Resources and Environment (Audit) Rules 2008 for the forestry sector in Sarawak is anticipated to foster a culture of self-regulation among companies, leading to improved compliance with environmental laws,” he said in a media release yesterday (June 4).

He made this remark during the closing ceremony of the 6th ECA training conducted by Sarawak Timber Association Training Sdn Bhd (STAT).

With the conclusion of this batch of training, Jack highlighted that NREB has trained a total of 198 internal and external auditors since the programme’s inception in 2013, underscoring their dedication to building capacity and fostering expertise in environmental compliance.

STA also expressed its commitment to continue engaging with NREB to achieve continuity in this capacity-building endeavour, ensuring ongoing improvement in environmental compliance and sustainable practices within the industry.

Through such collaborative initiatives, NREB and STA are committed to upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship and fostering a culture of sustainability and compliance, ensuring that Sarawak’s rich natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.

The training, led by experienced local trainer Justine Jok Jau and supported by Peter Sawal, was conducted in two tranches, involving 29 participants, from June 10 to 14 and July 2 to 4.

It offered participants knowledge and practical experience to ensure they were well-equipped to conduct environmental compliance audits effectively. — DayakDaily