MIRI: Community leaders from the N77 Telang Usan constituency were briefed on the potential of bamboo as a new economic driver during an industry session held at Dynasty Hotel here on Aug 1.
Organised by the N77 Telang Usan State Constituency Office in collaboration with the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (PUSAKA), the briefing brought together 20 community leaders, including five penghulus, to explore rural economic opportunities through bamboo-based development.
Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau, who officiated the event, described bamboo as a “golden opportunity” for interior communities to tap into a fast-growing global industry.
“With the right exposure and guidance, I believe our community is well-positioned to embrace this opportunity,” he said, urging participants to view bamboo not just as a raw material, but as a catalyst for sustainable income generation.
PUSAKA adviser Datuk Hashim Bojet highlighted the breadth of the bamboo value chain, from shoots and poles to high-value products such as furniture, handicrafts, cosmetics, textiles, organic fertilisers, biomass, pharmaceuticals, and eco-friendly building materials.
He said research collaborations with Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), and local universities are already under way to develop bamboo-based biotechnology.
“Community participation is crucial. This industry must grow inclusively to support Sarawak’s green economic agenda,” Hashim said.
PUSAKA acting manager for Bamboo Resources and Carbon Trading, Nizam Abdullah, gave a detailed presentation on job creation, market potential, community planting models, propagation techniques, and available support services.
A Q&A session followed, with local leaders raising concerns on seedling supply, technical guidance, and market access.
They also voiced support for the initiative and pledged to help identify suitable project locations in their respective areas.
The session is seen as a key step toward formulating a long-term development roadmap for the bamboo industry in Telang Usan—an area rich in natural resources and ready for sustainable economic participation.
