MIRI: The High Court here dismissed a judicial review challenging the issuance of a logging licence in Ulu Baram to Borneoland Timber Resources Sdn Bhd, ruling in favour of the Sarawak Forest Department.
Judge Dean Wayne Daly said the 11 applicants failed to prove locus standi that they were directly affected by the licence and lacked sufficient evidence to support claims of illegality, procedural impropriety or irrationality in the licence approval.
Sarawak Forest Department Director, Datuk Hamden Mohammad, said the court’s ruling confirms that his decision to issue the licence, with the approval of the Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development, was made in accordance with the Forests Ordinance 2015 and all procedural requirements.
“The court ruling in favour of the Sarawak Forest Department affirms that their actions were lawful and proper.
“Local communities, especially the Penan, are increasingly aware that external influences or NGOs have hindered development in Baram area,” he said.
Outside the court complex, communities from the Ulu Baram area, including Ba Data Bila, held banners and photographs of ongoing infrastructure projects, signalling strong local support for the development initiatives.
The Judicial Review, filed in January this year, was backed by organisations, including SAVE RIVERS and KERUAN, who submitted affidavits supporting the applicants.
