By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, May 15: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has reaffirmed Borneo Island’s crucial role in the global fight against climate change, following a recent discussion with experts from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
Speaking on the world’s worsening climate crisis, the Premier explained that rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns stem largely from excessive carbon emissions.
To combat this, the key lies in increasing oxygen output, which naturally offsets carbon in the atmosphere.
“Borneo is one of the few places on Earth that can produce large amounts of oxygen—including Sarawak. This means the future of the planet, and humanity, depends on this oxygen.
“That is why we must protect our Earth by replanting our trees,” he said when speaking during Bau District’s 205th anniversary celebration and the opening ceremony of the Tasik Biru Festival 2025 and Tasik Biru Resort City held near Tasik Biru here today.
Abang Johari further highlighted Sarawak’s aggressive reforestation efforts, revealing that the State has planted 35 million trees in just two years—the highest number in Malaysia. This massive tree-planting initiative is aimed at restoring the natural “lungs” of the Earth and safeguarding the environment.
On May 1, Abang Johari led a Sarawak government delegation to a strategic meeting with the LSE in London to explore long-term collaborations aimed at strengthening academic excellence and enhancing education for the civil service and government-linked institutions.
The meeting also explored possibilities for joint research, institutional partnerships, academic exchanges, and LSE’s involvement in Sarawak’s climate, energy, and sustainability efforts. — DayakDaily
