KUCHING: Sarawak will be getting an aircraft to better protect its forests and wildlife.
Minister of Water, Land and Natural Resources Dr Xavier Jayakumar said the Sarawak Forest Department, Sarawak Forestry Cooperation and his ministry have worked together to acquire the plane.
“The aircraft from Austria costs RM35 million and will be fully paid for by the federal government.
“We have reached a stage where we have approval from the Cabinet, and all that’s left is for the parties involved to sign the agreement,” he said at a press conference after paying a courtesy visit on Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and the Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the former’s office in Wisma Bapa Malaysia, yesterday.
He said Sarawak is expecting to get the aircraft by year-end, and it will be placed under the care of the Sarawak Forest Department.
“The aircraft will be used to map the whole of Sarawak’s forests, wildlife, land and underground resources.
“With this aircraft we can obtain full data on Sarawak that can be used for the betterment of the State,” he said.
He then said all agencies under the ministry would also be able to use the aircraft if necessary.
“Other than that, we have also discussed the development of a turnkey hyperspectral observation system in the state,” he said.
