SEMATAN: Sarawak’s commitment towards responsible forestry management moved a step forward as the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg officiated the launch of the Guidance Document on Interpreting Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Terms and Conditions for Forestry Sector Projects in Sarawak during the National Environment Day 2025 celebration at Roxy Beach Resort, Sematan recently.
Jointly developed by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the Sarawak Timber Association (STA) Environmental Compliance Audit (ECA) Working Group, with technical support from the Forest Department Sarawak, the document provides clearer interpretation of EIA Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) for forestry-related projects.
As stated by NREB's press statement, the initiative is expected to improve compliance under the Natural Resources and Environment (Audit) Rules 2008, particularly as the sector fully implements Environmental Compliance Audits beginning 1 July 2024.
In his welcoming remarks, Sarawak Controller of Environmental Quality, Datu Jack Liam described the effort as proactive, adding that the guidance will assist both internal and external auditors in ensuring approved EIA T&Cs are properly monitored, enforced and reflected through measurable on-ground action.
He noted that the document serves as a practical reference to close gaps between regulatory expectations and operational practices, especially for timber harvesting and industrial forest plantation development in hill forest areas.
The guidance complements existing NRE Audit Rules by offering sector-specific interpretations and reference tables.
As a living document, it is intended to evolve alongside regulatory improvements and industry needs, supporting Sarawak’s goal to maintain environmental stewardship while driving sustainable economic growth.
The collaboration further strengthens long-standing cooperation between NREB and STA to promote responsible environmental practices, enhance industry awareness and align with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 toward resilient and sustainable forest management. -UKASnews
