By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 31: A guidance document on ‘Interpreting Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Terms and Conditions for Forestry Sector Projects in Sarawak’ has been launched as a proactive step towards strengthening environmental compliance and self-regulation within the forestry sector.
In a joint statement by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the Sarawak Timber Association (STA), the document was launched by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the State-level National Environment Day 2025 celebration in Sematan on Wednesday (Oct 29).
“Developed jointly by the NREB and STA Environmental Compliance Audit (ECA) Working Group, with technical input from the Forest Department Sarawak (FDS), the document serves as an important reference to help the forestry sector better interpret and comply with the terms and conditions (T&Cs) of approved EIA reports.
“By clarifying these T&Cs, the document directly supports the implementation of the ECA, a key regulatory mechanism under the Natural Resources and Environment (Audit) Rules, 2008,” said the statement.
NREB Environmental Quality controller Datu Jack Liam commended the initiative, noting that with the full implementation of ECA for the forestry sector beginning July 1, 2024, the document will serve as a practical guide for both internal and external auditors, as well as project proponents, to ensure that the T&Cs of EIA approvals are effectively implemented and consistently monitored.
The document also helps bridge the gap between regulatory requirements and on-ground practices, ensuring that environmental safeguards are translated into measurable actions.
It also complements the existing Guidelines for Natural Resources and Environment (Audit) Rules, 2008, by providing sector-specific interpretations and reference tables for two key forestry activities in hill forests in Sarawak, namely timber harvesting and industrial forest plantation development.
It is designed to be a living document that evolves in tandem with regulatory and industry developments, supporting Sarawak’s ongoing commitment to strike a balance between environmental stewardship and sustainable economic growth.
“The development of the document further reinforces the long-standing collaboration between the NREB and STA, adding to the series of joint initiatives aimed at promoting responsible environmental practices, enhancing industry awareness, and strengthening regulatory compliance within the forestry sector.
“This partnership continues to exemplify the shared commitment of both organisations in supporting Sarawak’s sustainability agenda and advancing Sarawak’s vision under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 towards responsible, resilient and sustainable forest management,” said the statement.
The document is available for download from both NREB’s and STA’s websites. — DayakDaily
