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KUCHING, June 17: Sarawak has the potential to become a leading player in the global market for engineered wood products by leveraging its vast timber resources and investing in research initiatives.
Sarawak-born researcher Dr Muhammad Khusairy Bakri said as the construction industry embraces more eco-friendly alternatives, Sarawak’s advancements in Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Cross-Laminated Structural Veneer Lumber (CLSVL) will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable construction, both within the region and beyond.
“Sarawak, the largest State in Malaysia, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and vast timber reserves. With a long-standing tradition in the timber industry, Sarawak is making significant strides in engineering wood research and development, particularly in CLT and CLSVL.
“This rich resource base enables the production of high-quality timber products, providing a solid foundation for developing CLTs and CLSVLs. Sarawak can ensure a continuous timber supply for the engineering wood industry by utilising sustainably managed forests and promoting responsible and eco-friendly practices,” he said in a statement today.
Khusairy further said Sarawak’s commitment to engineering wood research and development presents substantial market opportunities.
As the demand for sustainable construction materials grows globally, he pointed out that Sarawak can position itself as a key supplier of CLTs and CLSVLs.
“By capitalising on its timber resources and expertise in the timber industry, Sarawak can attract investment, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth,” he said.
Khusairy noted that Sarawak has actively invested in research and development to improve the manufacturing processes and performance of CLTs and CLSVLs, while collaborations between local universities, government agencies, and industry players have established dedicated research centres focused on engineering wood.
These initiatives will enhance product quality, optimise manufacturing techniques, and explore new applications for CLTs and CLSVLs.
“Integrating CLTs and CLSVLs in Sarawak’s construction industry aligns with the global trend toward sustainable building practices. Builders can reduce their carbon footprint by utilising these engineered wood products and promoting eco-friendly construction methods.
“Moreover, the lightweight nature of CLTs and CLSVLs allows for faster and more efficient construction, contributing to cost savings and shorter project timelines,” he added.
Khusairy highlighted that CLTs and CLSVLs offer a wide range of residential and commercial construction applications, including walls, floors, and roofs, providing excellent structural stability and thermal performance.
Furthermore, the versatility of CLTs and CLSVLs allows for innovative architectural designs, enabling architects to push the boundaries of creativity while maintaining structural integrity.
Khusairy is researching composite materials under the Composite Materials and Engineering Centre (CMEC) at Washington State University (WSU). — DayakDaily
