SIBU: Measures taken to freeze the issuance of timber concession licences and the opening of new commercial oil palm plantations in Sarawak is to preserve the state’s forest from destruction, said Chief Minister
Tan Sri Adenan Satem.
Adenan, who is also Resource Planning and Environment Minister, said it was also aimed at curbing illegal timber logging activities and safeguard the interest of the people in the state.
“I have made a decision not to give any more timber concessions. It is enough. I want to preserve our forests as much as we (government) can.
“We must safeguard (forest), don’t let anyone steal our timber, it is Sarawak’s wealth. No more illegal felling,” he said at the Sibu division Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering here last night.
However he said the issuance of licences for opening up oil palm plantations by Felda, Felcra, Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) and public plantation companies involving native customary rights (NCR) could still be considered.-Bernama