KUCHING: The Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has called on the Sarawak government to establish an inclusive framework that enables indigenous communities to share in the economic benefits generated from carbon trading initiatives.
Its president Datuk Allan Keripin Nangkai said communities that have safeguarded Sarawak’s forests for generations should be recognised as strategic partners in the state’s emerging green economy rather than mere beneficiaries.
“On behalf of DCCI and the wider Dayak business community, I appeal to the Sarawak government to consider establishing an inclusive framework that enables affected indigenous communities to share in the economic benefits generated from carbon trading initiatives.
“Such participation should not be viewed as assistance. Rather, it is recognition of the invaluable role indigenous communities have played in preserving Sarawak’s natural capital. What we seek is not preferential treatment. What we seek is partnership,” he said during the 17th Joint DCCI-KCCI Gawai Kaamatan Celebration 2026 at the UNIFOR Complex here on Sunday (Jun 28).
Allan also proposed that indigenous organisations, including DCCI, the Orang Ulu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and representatives of affected communities, be engaged as strategic partners in consultation, governance, capacity building and benefit-sharing initiatives related to carbon projects.
He said such an approach would reflect the aspirations of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 by promoting economic prosperity, an inclusive society and environmental sustainability.
Describing carbon trading and the green economy as key drivers of future growth, Allan said Sarawak is well positioned to become a global leader in environmental sustainability, carbon management and renewable energy.
He said that long before carbon credits and sustainability became global priorities, indigenous communities had already been protecting the forests that are now recognised worldwide as critical assets in combating climate change.
“For many indigenous communities, the forests are more than natural resources. They are our ancestral heritage, our source of livelihood and are deeply intertwined with our culture, traditions and identity.
“It is therefore fair and reasonable that communities living in and around these forest ecosystems should be able to participate directly and benefit meaningfully from carbon trading and carbon-related projects undertaken within their traditional areas,” he said.
Allan stressed that carbon trading should not benefit only corporations and investors but should also create opportunities for rural communities, generate new indigenous enterprises, strengthen local economies and leave a legacy of shared prosperity for future generations.
He said the indigenous business community stands ready to contribute to Sarawak’s green economy through learning, investment and collaboration.
“The future belongs to those who are prepared to learn, innovate and lead. Your culture is your strength, your identity is your competitive advantage, and your creativity is your capital,” he said.
At the same time, Allan reaffirmed DCCI’s support for the Sarawak Government’s vision under PCDS 2030, citing progress in renewable energy, hydrogen development, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and strategic infrastructure as key milestones in the state’s economic transformation.
He added that DCCI remains committed to strengthening indigenous entrepreneurship by connecting businesses with opportunities, supporting entrepreneur-friendly policies, empowering youth and women-led enterprises, and strengthening collaboration with the Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and strategic partners across Borneo.
