SANDAKAN: The Sabah Forestry Department (SFD) unveiled its 2024 Annual Report yesterday, detailing significant strides in forest conservation, sustainable management, and climate action.
Chief Conservator of Forests Datuk Frederick Kugan presented the 288-page report to the State Secretary, representing the Chief Minister, during the State Forestry Appreciation Ceremony in Kota Kinabalu.
The report underscores Sabah’s progress toward sustainable forest management, with 63% (4.6 million hectares) of the state’s landmass remaining forested. Of this, 27% (2 million hectares) are designated as Totally Protected Areas. Notable achievements include the launch of Sabah’s Mangrove Action Plan at the 20th Malaysian Forestry Conference in October 2024, hosted by SFD and officiated by the Chief Minister.
Revenue from timber royalties and charges rose to RM171 million in 2024, a RM16 million increase from 2023. The department also spearheaded efforts to align the Sabah Timber Legality Assurance System (TLAS) with stringent EU deforestation regulations (EUDR) and due diligence directives (CS3D), ensuring continued access to international markets.
In a landmark move, carbon has been classified as a “forest produce” under the Forest Enactment 1968, positioning Sabah to capitalize on carbon markets. The department now houses the interim Greenhouse Gases (GHG) Unit, tasked with advancing the state’s climate agenda. SFD was also appointed Permanent Secretariat of the Sabah Climate Action Council (SCAC), solidifying its role in climate governance.
Under the Greening Malaysia Campaign, Sabah planted 23 million trees in 2024, bolstering reforestation efforts. Additionally, 178,000 hectares of forest plantations have been established. The department urged industry players to adopt an Economic Value Chain (EVC) approach, integrating upstream and downstream sectors for long-term sustainability.
SFD’s conservation successes were showcased at high-profile forums, including the ASEAN SAFS Forum 2024, Southeast Asia Biodiversity Workshop, and the Asia-Pacific Forest Landscape Restoration Conference. These platforms highlighted Sabah’s leadership in biodiversity protection and sustainable practices.
Frederick emphasized SFD’s commitment to evolving the GHG Unit into a dedicated climate department or ministry within two years.
“This report reflects our resolve to balance ecological preservation with economic resilience,” he stated.
The 2024 Annual Report serves as both a testament to SFD’s achievements and a roadmap for advancing Sabah’s green legacy. – James Leong
