Background
Natural Resources and Environment Board Sarawak (NREB) was established on 1st February 1994 under the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance, Chapter 84, Laws of Sarawak (1958 Ed.) to protect Sarawak’s natural resources and environment. NREB enforces the Ordinance and promotes environmental stewardship to ensure responsible development while ensuring sustainable resource conservation for the benefit of the present and future generations.
NREB mandate and role in environmental governance have been expanded through the enactment of the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance 2024 and its subsidiary legislations, as well as the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance 2023. These laws give NREB the authority to regulate and enforce environmental policies, regulations and promoting both sustainability and the green economy. The transfer of autonomy on environmental matters under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) expands NREB’s statutory responsibilities formerly under the jurisdiction of the Department of Environment Malaysia, starting with scheduled waste management.
As the key agency overseeing environmental stewardship in Sarawak, NREB plays a vital role in fostering sustainable development and driving the state’s green economy. Its efforts align with the Post COVID Development Strategy 2030, Sarawak’s Sustainability Blueprint, greenhouse gas reduction targets, ESG principles and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
|
|
|
Description and Meaning of Logo The Natural Resources and Environment Board's logo shows a hand holding up the basic element for life form to exist. Water and Plant - symbolise the single most important aspect and function of the board to enhance and protect the quality of natural environment in Sarawak. Holding them together by a blue circle symbolises the sky and clean water. The green colour symbolises the green plant species and trees. The different layers of yellow show the rich natural resources of Sarawak. |
Establishment of the Board
Following the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), which was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992, Sarawak State Government enacted the Natural Resources and Environment (Amendment) Ordinance, 1993 (Cap. 84 - Laws of Sarawak). Pursuant to Section 3(1) of the aforesaid Ordinance, the NREB was established on 1st February 1994 primarily tasked with the responsibility to protect and manage the environment and natural resources in the State.
NREB's Objective
NREB's main objective is to protect and enhance the environmental quality of the State, towards achieving sustainable and balanced development in Sarawak.
NREB's Customers
NREB's customers are the government departments, evironmental consultants, project proponents, relevant agencies and the public.
> Download NREB Strategic Plan 2025-2030
