Sematan 29 Oct 2025 Wednesday - The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg launched the “Guidance Document on Interpreting Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Terms and Conditions for Forestry Sector Projects in Sarawak” at the Hari Alam Sekitar Negara 2025 Peringkat Sarawak celebration held at Roxy Beach Resort, Sematan on 29 October 2025.

Developed jointly by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak and the Sarawak Timber Association (STA) Environmental Compliance Audit (ECA) Working Group, with technical input from the Forest Department Sarawak (FDS), the Guidance 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.

In his welcoming remarks, Datu Jack anak Liam, the Controller of Environmental Quality Sarawak, commended the initiative as a proactive step towards strengthening environmental compliance and self-regulation within the forestry sector. He noted that with the full implementation of ECA for the forestry sector beginning 1 July 2024, the Guidance 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.

The Guidance Document 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 alongside regulatory and industry developments, supporting Sarawak’s continuous commitment to balance environmental stewardship with sustainable economic growth.

The development of the Guidance 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.

The Guidance Document is available for download from NREB’s website at www.nreb.gov.my and STA’s website at www.sta.org.my to facilitate wider access and benefit to the forestry sector and stakeholders.

> Download Guidelines