KUCHING, May 10: Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) will enhance its Research and Development (R&D) division as it is an integral part of the development of the timber industry in Sarawak.
STIDC in a statement said it did so as it is facing various challenges, including dwindling raw materials and demand for sustainable and eco-friendly timber products.
“To address these challenges and to drive sustainability of the industry, it is timely to leverage R&D to devise new and innovative approaches to timber harvesting, processing and manufacturing,” it said.
STIDC said that R&D is essential to develop new timber processing techniques such as the use of advanced robotics, automation and digital technologies to enhance efficiency and minimise waste and costs.
“Through R&D, new composite materials such as engineered wood and bamboo-based products are likely to be developed besides exploring the potential of non-timber forest products.”
STIDC stressed that it augurs well with the National Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) Policy that emphasises R&D to drive the sustainability of the timber industry and to boost the economy of Sarawak.
It also hoped that this would warrant the unwavering support of industry players through aggressive R&D to produce high-value-added and sustainable products such as engineered wood and engineered bamboo.
STIDC in its statement also revealed that it is in collaboration with research agencies and universities to embark on joint applied research to develop high-value-added products for mutual benefit.
“The research conducted by STIDC has the potential to be developed and commercialised to drive sustainability of the timber industry in Sarawak.
“By investing in research and innovation, the industry can adapt to dynamic market demands,” it said. — DayakDaily
