Sarawak holds benchmarking with Australia’s national science agency

KUCHING: The Sarawak government has conducted benchmarking for enhancing forestry research collaboration at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Canberra, Australia.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan, who led the Sarawak delegation, said the visit aimed to explore and strengthen cooperation in scientific research and innovation, with a focus on forestry management and forest fire science research.

CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, is renowned for its groundbreaking research across various scientific disciplines, including forestry and fire science, the Second Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development said in a press statement today.

The Sarawak delegation engaged in meetings and dialogues with CSIRO officials, then visited several of the organisation’s research facilities, including the National Bushfire Behaviour Research Laboratory, the Australian National Herbarium, and the CSIRO Australian Tree Seed Centre.

The delegation also toured the National Bushfire Behaviour Research Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to understanding and modelling bushfire behaviour.

Researchers at the laboratory demonstrated advanced simulation tools and techniques used to study fire dynamics, spread patterns, and the effectiveness of various fire management strategies.

“This knowledge is crucial for enhancing fire preparedness and response strategies, which will inform the Sarawak government’s policy on forest fire management,” Awang Tengah said.

The Deputy Premier and his team also visited the Australian National Herbarium and the CSIRO Australian Tree Seed Centre, which house a comprehensive collection of herbarium specimens as well as native and exotic tree seeds.

The centre plays a vital role in conserving genetic diversity, supporting reforestation efforts, and conducting research on tree breeding and propagation.

The delegation learned about various tree species and initiatives in seed collection, storage, and research that contribute to sustainable forestry and biodiversity conservation.

“This visit is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Sarawak and CSIRO, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that advances scientific research and innovation based on mutual interests,” Awang Tengah added.