KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s proposal that Sarawak and Sabah receive at least 70 per cent of any carbon tax revenue collected by the federal government is not merely about revenue distribution.
It is also about acknowledging Sarawak’s and Sabah’s contributions to environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development.
In putting forth these arguments, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) member, Eric Tay Tze Kok, who backed the Premier, said the proposal is fair and forward-looking in that it recognises the significant role played by both states in conserving Malaysia’s forests and supporting the country’s transition towards a green economy.
“Sarawak and Sabah are Malaysia’s primary carbon sinks. Our tropical rainforests, peatlands and mangrove ecosystems absorb vast amounts of carbon dioxide while producing oxygen through photosynthesis.
“These ecosystems benefit not only Malaysians but also contribute to global efforts to combat climate change,” he said in a statement today.
Tay said carbon resources are increasingly becoming strategic economic assets as countries move towards decarbonisation and carbon markets.
“If Sarawak and Sabah shoulder the bulk of Malaysia’s carbon sequestration responsibilities, it is only fair that both states receive a share of carbon tax revenue that reflects their contribution. This is about fairness, sustainability and recognising those who have protected our forests for generations,” he said.
He added that Sarawak has spent decades conserving its forests, not only for present needs but also to ensure future generations inherit the state’s natural heritage.
Tay also welcomed the Premier’s call for a stronger framework on carbon resource management and revenue distribution within the constitutional framework of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution.
“Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia are equal partners in the Federation. Respecting MA63 means recognising the unique contributions of every partner and ensuring national policies are implemented fairly and equitably,” he said.
He proposed that indigenous communities, who have long protected Sarawak’s forests, directly benefit from future carbon-related initiatives.
“Future carbon policies should ensure they share in the benefits of the green economy through better employment opportunities, entrepreneurship and improved livelihoods,” he said.
Tay said environmental conservation and economic development should not be viewed as competing priorities but as complementary goals that can generate long-term economic opportunities while protecting Sarawak’s natural assets.
He described the Premier’s proposal as a strategic initiative that extends beyond carbon tax revenue, saying it lays the foundation for Sarawak’s long-term sustainable development and strengthens its position in Malaysia’s green transformation.
