KUCHING: Sarawak has taken a bold step in addressing environmental issues with the introduction of two new rules under the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance, 2023.
These rules aim to tackle the growing problem of greenhouse gas emissions and ensure the protection of the environment.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg announced the new regulations during the Sarawak-level National Environment Day celebration at the Majma Event and Convention Centre on Wednesday.
The first, the Qualifications and Registration of Accredited External Auditors Rules 2024, ensures that auditors responsible for environmental reports are properly qualified and adhere to a strict code of conduct.
This measure is crucial for verifying and holding companies accountable as Sarawak pursues its greenhouse gas reduction targets.
"The board has introduced this rule to ensure that processes aimed at safeguarding our environment are verified and qualified by competent auditors,” said Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari.
The second rule, the Flaring and Venting Rules 2024, places strict controls on flaring and venting activities, particularly in Sarawak’s oil and gas sector.
These controls require consent from the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) to ensure the safe release of gas into the atmosphere, mitigating harmful emissions.
"With so much gas in areas like Bintulu, it’s crucial we regulate flaring to prevent excessive heat and pollution. These rules provide us with a vital monitoring system," he added.
According to him, these new regulations highlight Sarawak’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.
As part of his continued support for environmental initiatives, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari announced a grant of RM1.5 million for 2025 to establish environmental clubs in schools across Sarawak.
This initiative, requested by the Controller of Environmental Quality, Datu Jack Liam, is aimed at fostering environmental awareness and building a clean, green future for the state.
In further support of environmental education, the Premier presented mock cheques for the Pencinta Alam Sekitar (PALS Club) Adoption Programme.
Various companies have committed to adopting schools and contributing to environmental projects; Press Metal (Bintulu) Sdn. Bhd. will adopt 20 schools in Kuching, Samarahan, Padawan and Lundu, contributing RM40,000; Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn. Bhd. will support eight schools in Kuching and Betong with RM16,000; Chemsain Konsultants Sdn. Bhd. will contribute RM8,000 to adopt four schools in Kuching, Dalat and Daro whereas Thian Sheng Sdn. Bhd. will adopt five schools in Kuching with RM10,000.
The Premier stressed the importance of these partnerships in building a community that values environmental conservation and works toward a sustainable future for Sarawak.
Also present at the ceremony were Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh, Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak Datu Jack Liam, Director of Sarawak Department of Environment John Rampai and other guests. -UKASnews
