By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 13: A full transfer of environmental regulatory authority to the Sarawak government would allow the State to formulate more targeted and effective environmental policies, guidelines and regulations tailored to its unique conditions, which differ from other states in Malaysia.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said Sarawak’s geographical features, rich biodiversity and distinct socio-economic landscape necessitate a customised regulatory approach.
Responding to Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang during the question-and-answer session in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today, she said such autonomy would strengthen the State’s capacity to manage environmental matters more efficiently.
She explained that with full regulatory authority, Sarawak would be able to design policies, guidelines and regulations that better reflect local realities, particularly in areas such as land development, forest protection and pollution control.
“This would enable a more flexible, targeted and practical approach to environmental management that is aligned with Sarawak’s specific needs.
“Devolving environmental powers would also improve decision-making efficiency by allowing approvals and enforcement processes to be handled directly at the State level,” she said.
Sharifah Hasiah further emphasised that it would enhance monitoring and enforcement on the ground, ensuring stronger protection of Sarawak’s natural environment in a more comprehensive and sustainable manner.
The transfer of environmental regulatory authority from the federal government to the Sarawak government through the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), including the management of scheduled wastes, is among the matters achieved under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). — DayakDaily
