By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 16: Illegal wildlife trade is the fourth largest global illicit market behind firearms, drugs, and human trafficking, worth an estimated USD20 billion (RM100 billion) annually, which is 10 times the annual budget of Sarawak.
Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh pointed out that it is the magnitude of the illegal wildlife trade that the Sarawak government is serious in tackling this issue in the State.
“Illegal wildlife trade is a multi-billion dollar business worldwide. With the annual budget of Sarawak hovering around RM12 billion, the illegal wildlife trade surpasses it by tenfold.
“Comparatively, in the context of Malaysia’s 2024 budget of RM390 billion, the illicit trade constitutes 25 per cent of the entire national budget,” he said when officiating at Sarawak Forestry Corporation’s (SFC) Integrity Day 2023 at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
Len Talif reiterated the government’s dedication to addressing not only the illegal wildlife trade but also digital security threats and fostering a culture of integrity in Sarawak’s conservation efforts.
“This is to ensure Sarawak has a strong foundation of integrity with a clear objectives of addressing corruption through various measures,” he said.
To fortify Sarawak’s commitment to integrity and good governance, he reiterated that an ombudsman bill is set to be tabled in the upcoming Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting which will start next week.
Recognising the multifaceted challenges posed by illegal wildlife trade that continues to endanger Sarawak’s precious biodiversity as well as emerging digital threats, Len Talif stressed that the Sarawak government has taken a firm stance against corruption, both within its own ranks and in society at large.
“We have put in place robust rules and checks to ensure that it remains honest and transparent in our conservation efforts. Exemplary leadership is championed, and a culture of reporting wrongdoing without fear of reprisal is encouraged.
“The government also recognises the need to stay ahead of evolving threats by embracing technology as a force for good,” he added.
He called for collective efforts and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, international partners, and dedicated individuals to dismantle the networks jeopardizing Sarawak’s precious natural resources.
The event also witnessed the presentation of certificates to 30 SFC enforcement officers who have completed their training at Police Training Centre (Pulapol).
Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Sarawak director Datuk Mohd Zaki Hassan, SFC chief executive officer Zolkipli Mohamad Aton, and Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak Jack Liam were among those present. — DayakDaily
