By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 29: The Sarawak Timber Association (STA) warned that recent unfounded allegations made by Human Rights Watch and Sarawak-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which lack substantiated proof, could lead to a figurative “genocide” of the timber industry by unfairly branding it as a contributor to deforestation and violator of indigenous rights.
These claims suggested that Sarawak’s vast ancient rainforests are at risk of destruction for timber and oil palm plantations catering to international markets.
In a statement, STA chief executive officer (CEO) Annie Ting described the allegations as unfounded and a deliberate attempt to undermine an industry that has made significant strides in sustainable forest management (SFM).
“STA has always welcomed and supported NGOs as independent observers monitoring the industry’s well-being. So why this sudden call for a damaging classification?
“Why should Sarawak be labelled as ‘high risk’ based on one isolated incident? Have the NGOs made any effort to engage in dialogue with the Sarawak government and STA to verify their claims before making sweeping allegations?
“Is it not an unjust and vicious act to label the whole industry as high risk over a single purported unjust act?” she said in a press statement issued yesterday (Oct 28).
The STA has called on the European Union (EU) to conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations, involving all relevant stakeholders, to assess whether the concerns raised accurately reflect the industry as a whole.
“The future of Sarawak’s timber industry and the livelihoods of thousands of people depend on a balanced and fair decision, not one driven by isolated cases,” she emphasised.
Ting highlighted that the Sarawak timber industry is a vital contributor to the nation’s economy and supports the livelihoods of many.
She reiterated Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable forest management, evident through the State’s stringent policies on sustainability, conservation efforts, and community engagement initiatives in collaboration with international bodies such as the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO).
“We have also worked tirelessly to ensure free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) practices in areas affected by timber operations,” she concluded. — DayakDaily
