TOKYO, Japan: The Sarawak Government is entering a new phase of collaboration with Japan, exploring potential partnerships in green technology, the global carbon market, biodiversity science, and human capital development.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that after three decades of close cooperation between the Japanese Malaysia Association (JMA) and the Sarawak Forestry Department, it is time for both parties to expand their work into new, high-impact areas.
“Moving forward, I believe this partnership can be broadened to include professional and capacity development in carbon monitoring, LiDAR, GIS, and biodiversity science.
“This also covers joint participation in the international carbon market under the Article 6.2 framework, youth and community empowerment programmes, as well as student, researcher, and academic exchange initiatives between Japanese institutions and universities in Sarawak,” he said.
Abang Johari was speaking at the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the Collaboration between JMA and the Sarawak Forestry Department, held at a leading hotel here today.
Abang Johari added that the partnership, which began in 1995, focused not only on forest restoration but also on community development and environmental education across the state.
He said Sarawak greatly values its relationship with Japan, not only in trade and investment, but also in people-to-people connections, cultural exchanges, knowledge sharing, and a shared commitment to environmental conservation.
“In this regard, JMA has served as an important ‘bridge’ linking the people of Japan and Sarawak,” he said.
