Sarawak to reduce timber exports, boost planted forest downstream industries in green transition

Photo for illustrative purposes only. Image by Cecilie G from Pixabay

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, May 31: Sarawak will gradually reduce timber exports as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability while encouraging the growth of downstream industries based on planted forests, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

In his Gawai Dayak 2026 message, Abang Johari said the move forms part of Sarawak’s broader strategy to accelerate its transition towards a green economy.

“With regards to our effort towards green economic transition, there will be reduction in the export of timber as we emphasise on environmental sustainability,” he said.

Despite the planned reduction in timber exports, he stressed that the State government would continue to support economic activities linked to the forestry sector through value-added downstream industries.

According to him, the government is encouraging the development of downstream industries based on planted forests to serve a dual purpose of producing biomass and functioning as carbon sinks.

The approach is expected to support Sarawak’s renewable energy and low-carbon development agenda while creating additional economic opportunities from sustainably managed forest resources.

Abang Johari said the policy is aligned with Sarawak’s wider vision of positioning itself as a regional green economy hub.

The Premier’s remarks come as Sarawak continues to pursue multiple green initiatives, including investments in renewable energy, hydrogen technology, low-carbon industries and sustainable resource management under its Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 framework.

He said the State’s economic transformation agenda is aimed not only at driving growth but also ensuring long-term environmental sustainability for future generations. — DayakDaily