KUCHING: Sarawak remains committed to environmental sustainability, with initiatives such as the green economy, renewable energy, and hydrogen development playing a key role in addressing climate change.
Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development Datuk Len Talif Salleh, underscored these efforts, emphasising that Sarawak’s environmental policies are in line with global sustainability objectives.
“This is why initiatives led by the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg such as green economy strategies, renewable energy, and hydrogen development are all focused on addressing environmental challenges.
“We must continue to safeguard these efforts. And this also highlights the importance of ensuring that every activity we undertake must prioritise environmental concerns,” he said in a press conference during the Media Appreciation Night at here, on Wednesday (Feb 19).
Referring to the devastating floods that recently affected several national park areas, Len pointed out that the heavy downpour, recorded at over 900mm within 24 hours, was an unprecedented weather event.
“To put this into perspective, Bintulu’s average annual rainfall is approximately 4,500mm. In this case, we experienced around 900mm of rainfall within just 24 hours. No system in the world can withstand that volume of rain in a single day.
“If we observe closely, this is part of the manifestation of climate change. Globally, we see similar situations, and we are no exception,” he added.
Len Talif stressed that although Sarawak is small on the world map, it plays a vital role in ensuring environmental sustainability.
“At the same time, when we talk about climate change, we must also consider the role of forests. Forests are our most valuable asset in mitigating the effects of climate change. That is why everyone must play their part in preserving our state,” he said.
Regarding damage to national parks, he assured that while some areas were affected, the situation was not as severe as a decade ago.
“Naturally, national parks experience significant rainfall. However, based on previous studies, many areas have sustained damage, though not as severe as what we experienced approximately ten years ago.
“Over the past six or seven years, we have reduced logging activities in these areas, and timber production has decreased. This is a conscious effort to curb deforestation while promoting reforestation in these regions.” he said.
He also emphasised Sarawak’s shift towards a green economy, including carbon trading.
“This means generating revenue from carbon assets without destroying them. Instead of cutting down trees, we will engage in carbon dioxide trading,” Len Talif said.
