Sarawak to implement new regulations next year for environmental sustainability, emissions control, says Premier

KUCHING (Oct 23): Sarawak will implement two new regulations next year aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

The regulations are the Certified External Auditors Eligibility and Registration Regulations 2024, and the Burning and Emission Regulations 2024.

Abang Johari explained that the Certified External Auditors Eligibility and Registration Regulations are designed to ensure compliance with ethical standards and the responsibility to verify accurate reports, thereby supporting Sarawak’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The Burning and Emission Regulations 2024 will govern burning and gas emission activities in Sarawak by enforcing strict controls, requiring prior approval from the Controller of the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB).

“The first regulation (auditing) ensures that any report made will be audited. We have laws to manage and ensure the report is authentic.

“As for the second regulation, related to burning and gas emissions, it will be monitored by NREB and will come into effect in 2025.

“This means that there will be certain levels (of emissions) that will be controlled and monitored by the NREB Controller, who will issue the necessary licenses,” he said.

Abang Johari was speaking to reporters after officiating at the Sarawak-level National Environment Day (HASN) ceremony at the Majma Event and Convention Centre.

Also present was Datu Jack Liam, the NREB Sarawak Environmental Quality Controller.

The Premier noted that both NREB and he have reached an agreement on the auditing regulation, which aims to verify the quality of reported processes to ensure clean, well-maintained air.

Earlier in his officiating speech, Abang Johari expressed the state government’s eagerness to engage the private sector in environmental sustainability efforts, particularly in the oil and gas industry.

He acknowledged that some companies still emit harmful substances during their operations.

“That is why we want them to collaborate with NREB in this effort, and the most important thing is their awareness and education about the importance of protecting the environment to keep it safe,” he stated.

Additionally, Abang Johari announced an allocation of RM1.5 million next year for NREB to establish Environmental Lovers Clubs (PALS) in schools across the state.

He detailed that NREB aims to have all secondary and primary schools equipped with PALS by 2030, with a total allocation of RM13 million for the overall programme until that year.