62 percent of Sarawak is still covered by forests

KUCHING, Oct. 27: At least 62 percent of Sarawak's total land area is still covered by forests, reflecting the state's commitment to ensuring sustainable development while preserving the environment.

Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the achievement was driven by land use policy and sustainable forest management implemented by the state government.

According to him, Sarawak which has a land area of about 12.4 million hectares also contributes significantly to Malaysia's commitment to maintain at least 50 per cent of the country's forest cover.

"Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia. 62 percent of Sarawak's total land area is still covered by forests. We contribute significantly to the country's commitment to maintain at least 50 percent of the country's land area under forest cover", he said.

He said while speaking on behalf of the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Environmental Education (EEC) 2026 Conference here today.

According to Awang Central, the Government of Sarawak will remain committed to sustainable development to ensure that economic progress does not affect the natural treasures to be inherited by future generations.

He said the efforts are also in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS) which balances economic prosperity, social inclusion and environmental sustainability.

Sarawak also said it set targets to maintain six million hectares of the Perennial Reserve Forest and one million hectares of protected areas fully to protect biodiversity, important habitats and watershed.

Thus, responsible forest management must continue to be strengthened to ensure that the state's natural resources remain conserved, while supporting sustainable development for future generations-TVS