‘Two-pronged strategy to address climate change, protect environment’

KUCHING (March 23): The Sarawak government is strengthening both policy and on-the-ground measures as part of a broader strategy to address climate change and safeguard the environment, said Datuk Len Talif Salleh.

The Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development said the approach aligns with the vision outlined by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, which emphasises a two-pronged strategy, namely strengthening legal frameworks and enhancing operational efforts in the field.

“From the legal perspective, we have further strengthened our framework to ensure that the public understands their roles and responsibilities in complying with environmental laws,” he said at his Hari Raya open house here on Sunday.

On the operational front, Len Talif noted that various agencies, including those under his ministry as well as the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, play a crucial role in disseminating information.

“This includes raising awareness not only among the public but also across government agencies, both directly and indirectly.”

He added that while Sarawak may be relatively small on the global stage, the state remains committed to contributing to global environmental efforts through initiatives such as the green economy and energy transition.

“As part of conservation targets, Sarawak aims to gazette one million hectares of land as Totally Protected Areas, including national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and nature reserves.

“To date, more than 900,000 hectares have already been gazetted, with additional areas identified for future protection,” he said.

Len Talif stressed the importance of forests, noting that they not only support production but also act as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

“Forest ecosystems also help reduce surface water erosion and mitigate landslides,” he added.

On the proposed gazettement of areas such as Payeh Maga in Lawas, he said the process involves public engagement to ensure that local communities have a voice.

“If local inhabitants raise reasonable objections to certain areas being gazetted as nature parks, adjustments will be made accordingly.

“There is a process before final gazettement and we ensure that the people on the ground are given the opportunity to express their views.”

He also highlighted the importance of protecting wildlife, particularly the hornbill which is considered rare.

“Malaysia is home to only eight species of hornbills, found mainly in tropical regions such as India, Thailand and the Philippines. In Sarawak, hornbills can still be spotted in areas like Santubong, reinforcing their status as a key symbol of the state,” he said.

Looking ahead, Len Talif cautioned that the coming months are expected to be dry and urged the public to avoid open burning, which could worsen environmental conditions.

“We must be cautious, especially with the extreme weather patterns we are experiencing whether it is excessive rainfall leading to floods or prolonged heat causing drought,” he said, adding that everyone has a role to play in protecting the environment.

As part of long-term measures, he said Sarawak is also developing a comprehensive solid waste management system aimed at reducing reliance on landfill sites across the state.

“The final study is currently being carried out and will be presented to the state Cabinet for approval.

“We hope this will help reduce the number of landfill sites and support our efforts to better protect the environment,” he said.