By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Jan 2: The functions of Sarawak Forestry Department (SFD) and Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) have been streamlined in a restructuring effort to allow the two to be focussed on carrying out their respective duties, effective today.
In the process of restructuring, SFC will fully take over Sarawak Forestry Corporation Sdn Bhd (SFCSB).
Witnessing the signing of documents to hand over duties in conjunction with the restructuring of SFD and SFC, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the transfer of duties also involves the absorption of personnel from SFCSB to SFC where they will be recommended for Malaysian Civil Servant Remuneration Scheme.
Following the restructuring, SFD relinquishes the functions of SFC under the Forests Ordinance, 2015 namely forest management, forest research and development, forest engineering, forest compliance, compliance and collection of forest produce and farmland.
Meanwhile, SFC will take over duties enshrined until the National Parks and Nature Reserves Ordinance 1998, and the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998 relating to the management and administration of the Fully Protected Areas, National Parks, Natural Reserves as well as the management and preservation of wildlife.
In the process of restructuring and transfer of duties, 377 personnel from SFCSB will be transferred to SFD.
“The SFD will also acquire all assets including vehicles used by SFCSB in carrying out the functions under the Forests Ordinance 2015 to ensure that the implementation of these functions runs smoothly,” said Abang Johari in a press conference after witnessing the signing of documents to hand over duties at his office at Wisma Bapa Malaysia today.
Public sector and industry players are reminded to be aware of the changing roles of these agencies.
Also present were Urban Development and Resources Assistant Minister Datu Len Talif Salleh and State Secretary Datuk Amar Jaul Samion.
SFD Deputy Director Jack Liam said the streamlining of duties between the department and SFC will allow both agencies to be more focussed and avoid the overlapping of duties.
“We just concentrate on our part on forestry and SFC will focus on wildlife and reserve management. So no overlapping of jobs,” said Jack. — DayakDaily
