S’wak issues 9 carbon study permits covering 231,983ha as it advances nature-based climate solutions

Awang Tengah (third right) and others launching the MCC 2.0 2026 in a hotel in Kuching on July 13, 2026. Source: Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas)

By Doreen Ling

KUCHING, July 13: To date, the Sarawak government has issued nine Carbon Study Permits have been issued across nine divisions, covering approximately 231,983 hectares in a bid to advance nature-based solutions that utilise forests, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems to reduce climate risks while protecting biodiversity and water resources.

According to Deputy Premier and Second Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development Sarawak Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, this reinforces Sarawak’s commitment to ensuring carbon initiatives strengthen conservation, preserve environmental integrity, and deliver equitable benefits to local communities.

“Our position remains clear: carbon initiatives must strengthen conservation, maintain environmental integrity and deliver equitable benefits to local communities,” he said at the Malaysian Conservation Conference (MCC) 2.0 2026 in a hotel here today, where he represented Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

A copy of his text speech was later made available to the media.

At the same time, he said that the future of conservation will increasingly be shaped by innovation and technology.

“Advances in satellite monitoring, drone surveillance, digital mapping, artificial intelligence and environmental data analytics are strengthening our ability to protect ecosystems, combat illegal activities, and support evidence-based policymaking.

“Sarawak will continue embracing these technologies to enhance conservation outcomes while creating new opportunities for research, education, and green innovation,” he said.

He went on to say that conservation is a shared responsibility, and that while the government must provide leadership through sound policies, effective legislation, and strong institutions, lasting success depends equally on researchers, universities, industry, indigenous communities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the wider public. — DayakDaily