KUCHING: Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) congratulates the newly appointed committee of the Sarawak Furniture Industry Association (SFIA) for 2025–2028 and reaffirms its steadfast commitment to elevating the state’s furniture sector on the global stage.

At the SFIA 17th Committee Installation Dinner, held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Friday night, STIDC General Manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah outlined an ambitious, collaborative strategy for the future, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and enhanced international competitiveness.

From January to April 2025, Malaysia’s timber and timber products trade reached RM9.95 billion, with exports accounting for RM7.18 billion.

Of note, wooden furniture emerged as the leading export, contributing over RM3 billion and consolidating Malaysia’s reputation for world-class craftsmanship.

While Sarawak’s timber export earnings for 2024 stood at RM2.84 billion, reflecting a slight dip from 2023, the sector remains resilient. Strong performances in plywood and log exports are testament to the industry’s adaptability and enduring value.

“Our skilled artisans and workforce are at the heart of a vibrant industry that preserves local heritage while driving economic prosperity.

“However, the industry continues to face significant challenges, such as shortages of raw materials, limited skilled labour, rising costs, and intense global competition,” Zainal said.

To address these issues, STIDC and SFIA are jointly developing a comprehensive Furniture Industry Blueprint.

This forward-thinking plan focuses on fostering innovation, strengthening supply chains, and expanding market access.

A cornerstone of this strategy is the establishment of two dedicated Furniture Parks in Demak Laut and Tanjung Manis, under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13).

These parks will provide critical infrastructure, create employment opportunities, and drive regional economic development.

Beyond infrastructure, STIDC is championing skills development and entrepreneurship through targeted training programmes to meet local industry needs.

Partnerships with agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Malaysian Timber Council are expected to provide manufacturing incentives and enhance export capabilities.

“The collaborative foundation between STIDC and SFIA is important to positioning Sarawak’s furniture industry as a globally recognised, value-added powerhouse.

“Through sustained collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, we are laying the groundwork for long-term industry success,” Zainal emphasised.

Therefore, he called upon industry stakeholders to actively support STIDC-SFIA initiatives, take part in the growth of the Furniture Parks, and help shape policies that create an enabling environment for the sector.-UKASnews