STIDC ties up with UiTM to craft engineered wood blueprint
Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) has embarked on a collaborative effort with experts from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to craft a comprehensive Engineered Wood Blueprint.
STIDC general manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah said this document assumes a pivotal role in shaping the path of engineered wood development in Sarawak.
“It not only serves as a guide but also as a roadmap that defines the strategies, methodologies and critical considerations essential for the sustainable growth of this sector,” he said.
His text of speech was delivered by STIDC Trade Facilitation and Promotion assistant director Awang Mentali Awang Mohamaed Sulaiman at a seminar on engineered timber products, here yesterday.
Zainal Abidin in his speech said this blueprint emerged as a beacon of knowledge and foresight, ushering in a new era of innovation and environmentally conscious practices as Sarawak continued to explore and expand its timber industry.
“It symbolises STIDC’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and ecologically responsible engineered wood industry in the heart of Borneo.
“This presents a unique opportunity for LPF (licence for planted forests) holders in Sarawak to contribute to the production of suitable and sustainable materials for this burgeoning industry.”
To achieve these goals, he said it is imperative for Sarawak to establish a first-class centre for research and development, particularly concerning product performance in the engineered wood sector.
“This workshop is not just appropriate, but is also a crucial step towards expanding this industry and cementing Sarawak’s status as a major producer of timber products in the region.
“In our pursuit of these ambitious goals, we hope to organise similar events in the future, ensuring the continued growth and success of the timber industry and, consequently, the prosperity of our beloved state.
“Through this platform, we aspire to gather valuable feedback from industry players and stakeholders regarding their interest in investing in the engineered wood business.
“Furthermore, this forum provides an invaluable opportunity to disseminate the latest information on potential markets and global market standards and requirements,” said Zainal Abidin.
Commenting further, he said the transformation of the timber industry – from a primary-based sector to a high-value-added industry – is essential.
He said the global engineered wood market exhibited robust growth over the past decade, with its valuation soaring from US$285 million in 2019 to a projected US$400.5 million by 2027.
This remarkable surge in market value underscores the increasing popularity and demand for engineered wood products worldwide, he added.
“This growth trend shows a significant opportunity for industry players to harness the market’s potential and establish a strong presence in the sector.
“To thrive in this competitive landscape, businesses should focus on innovation, quality and sustainable practices to meet the rising demand effectively.
“This transformation aligns with our goal under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 to generate RM8 billion in annual export earnings, propelling Sarawak towards becoming a developed and highincome state by 2030.
“As part of PCDS 2030, our state is actively pursuing the development of high-valueadded industries, with a special focus on engineered wood, furniture and bamboo-based products.”
Zainal Abidin said these endeavours are well-matched with global trends that advocate for increased use of engineered wood in the building and construction industry.
“Engineered wood presents a compelling case as a sustainable and green construction material. It has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions by replacing traditional materials like cement and steel,” he said.
He also mentioned that engineered wood can store carbon and boasts a lower carbon footprint, which aligns perfectly with the Sarawak government’s aspirations for environmental sustainability within the PCDS 2030 framework.