Tackle haze at source, says Awang Tengah

KUCHING: Stronger cooperation between countries is needed to tackle transboundary haze at its source.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the haze experienced in the state over the past few months signalled the need for countries to address the problem together.

“To tackle this problem, we must address it at its source.

“When winds carry haze from elsewhere into Sarawak, we are affected,” he said when officiating at the Environmental Education Conference 2026 at a hotel here today (Oct 27) on behalf of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Awang Tengah, who is also Second Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development, called for joint approaches and strategies to address environmental threats that transcend national boundaries.

Despite its relatively small presence on the global map, Sarawak remained committed to sustainable development through its land-use and sustainable forest management policies, he added.

About 62 per cent of the state’s approximately 12.4 million hectares remained under forest cover.

“As the largest state in Malaysia, Sarawak contributes significantly to the country’s commitment to maintaining at least 50 per cent of its land area under forest cover,” he said.

Awang Tengah said Sarawak was also advancing its transition towards green and renewable energy by tapping its river systems for hydropower while developing solar energy and bioenergy.

“We are fortunate to be blessed with many rivers and the potential to develop renewable energy through hydropower using various approaches, including cascading dams and water storage,” he said.

He stressed that development must proceed hand in hand with environmental planning and conservation, particularly as climate change presents growing challenges.

Awang Tengah (centre) together with other distinguished guests and delegates during the event.