Timber-based agencies urged to work with STIDC
SIBU: Timber-related industries and agencies are told to work together with Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) to add value to their timber products.
Assistant Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datu Len Talif Salleh said they (agencies) should also cooperate in order to expand the market of timber products to other potential markets (countries).
“Sarawak registered RM6.13 billion in export of timber and timber products in 2017. Furniture and its components contributed to about RM46.7 million.
“The furniture industry in Sarawak is small, and still in the early stages but with the government implementing the timber industry transformation plan, it will help to transform the timber industry structure, which is dependent on primary and secondary-based industries to tertiary industry focusing on development of furniture and value- added industries,” he said when officiating at STIDC 45th anniversary celebration here on Tuesday.
STIDC general manager Hashim Bojet, Assistant Minister of Corporate Affairs Abdullah Saidol, Daro assemblyman Safiee Ahmad and Ta Ann executive chairman Datuk Amar Abdul Hamed Sepawi were among those present.
Len, who is Kuala Rajang assemblyman, expressed the hope that STIDC’s contributions in leading the development of timber industry to a higher level could be maintained in line with the required responsibilities.
“I believe our wood-based industry has the potential to compete with developed countries, especially in the use of digital technology.
“The forest plantation project in Bintulu will ensure continuous supply of timber resources, especially for industrial purposes. Apart from that, the industry provides good economic and financial returns, and also contribute towards the preservation of the environment and ecology in the areas involved,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Len said he was happy to note that STIDC had proven its capability and efficiency in facing challenges, and had undergone transformation process to place the timber industry as one of major contributors to Sarawak’s socio- economic development and progress.
He said matters concerning forestry and timber were seen as global issues that attract the world’s attention.
The issues were also facing many challenges at international level in areas such as trade, sustainability and legality of supply sources. These included smuggling, illegal logging, and global warming, he said.
“I hope to see the timber industry progressing fast and continue to grow sustainably so that it can help maximise our contribution to the development of Sarawak. The industry is currently the fourth largest contributor to Sarawak’s revenue,” he said.