By Neville Timothy Sanders
THE introduction of the Forest (Amendment) Bill 2022 is yet another bold move taken by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government, according to Friday Belik.
The Krian assemblyman said that it was to ensure that Sarawak would be in a better position to manage the state’s forest and its related activities in years to come.
“It also reflects the far sightedness of our Premier who is able to foresee and anticipate what are the complexities that the future generations will be facing in as far as environmental issues are concerned,” he said.
Friday added that the bill was not only timely but a forward looking move by the state government.
“It will pave the way for government strategies that are dynamic. It will aim to maintain and enhance the economic, social and environmental values of all types of forests for the benefits of present and future generations,” he added.
Friday said the amended law would also provide for a better governance and a more effective regulatory mechanism to manage the state’s forests and related activities.
“Therefore, it is crucial for the state to create amenity forests that can provide a balanced ecosystem for education, research and recreational purposes.
“Besides that, amenity forests with the trees still intact can be turned into carbon stocks and it is for the government to control the carbon related activities including trading and licensing,” he added.
Friday hoped ample time would be given for the people to understand and accept the law.
“It might be sound quite premature to deliberate on the amended law in detail now. But the moment the bill approved, it will attract a lot of interest and queries among our people.
“Lastly, I would like to congratulate our Deputy Premier for this Forest (Amendment) Bill 2022. That being said, I am supporting this bill. Thank you,” said Friday.
