KUCHING: The Sarawak government remains committed to strengthening environmental conservation efforts, with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) continuing to play a pivotal role in protecting the state’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state is fortunate to be home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests — an invaluable asset that must be preserved and conserved for future generations.
“Climate change is a global challenge, and we are very fortunate that one of the oldest rainforests in the world is in Borneo. This is an asset that must be preserved and conserved for future generations,” he said during the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) Appreciation and Excellence Service Awards ceremony held at a hotel here last night.
Abang Johari commended SFC for its achievements, particularly its contribution towards the successful recognition of Niah Cave as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, describing it as a proud milestone for Sarawak.
“I must congratulate SFC for your achievements. Niah is not only a site of scientific research into human civilisation but also a symbol of our efforts to preserve our heritage,” he said.
He said SFC’s role is crucial in ensuring that Sarawak’s flora, fauna, and habitats remain protected through continuous learning and the application of up-to-date environmental knowledge.
“Your task is very important. One of the key pillars in our Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) is environmental sustainability. You have to look after our environment, for that is the legacy we will leave behind for the future generation,” he stressed.
The Premier also noted that the state government, in collaboration with the Forest Department, has planted about 35 million trees within the past few years — making Sarawak the first to achieve its reforestation target.
He said new and innovative approaches to forest management are necessary to enhance the value of the state’s forests while maintaining their ecological balance.
“We will continue to launch new initiatives to create awareness on the importance of forests and the environment,” he added.
Abang Johari also described SFC as the custodian of conservation and environmental protection in Sarawak, serving as the frontline in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
He highlighted that nature-based solutions play a vital role in addressing climate change by relying on natural processes such as carbon absorption and oxygen production from trees and plants.
“We are blessed with the rich natural environment that we have, and this is our contribution to tackling the global environmental challenges of today,” he said.
The Premier assured that the Sarawak government will continue to support SFC’s efforts in working with both local and international partners to protect the planet and promote environmental sustainability.
“SFC is not only an agency that protects our environment but also one that can collaborate with the global community in defending our planet,” he said.
