BINTULU: A bamboo planting programme has been launched to enhance the greenery of the Samalaju Industrial Park, focusing on the cultivation of bamboo species to ensure a sustainable supply of raw materials for Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd (PFASB) fuel needs.
Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (PUSAKA) general manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah expressed optimism that PFASB would collaborate with PUSAKA officials to conduct growth and yield studies on the newly planted bamboo.
“This bamboo planting programme is expected to transform the landscape of the Samalaju Industrial Park into a healthy green area, positively impacting the environment and the health of workers in Samalaju.
“For PFASB, using bamboo as an alternative fuel source to charcoal in its operations will help reduce operating costs and increase income for both the company and the local community,” he said.
He stressed the significance of strong cooperation between PUSAKA and PFASB in this endeavour, which is further supported by Bintulu Port Holdings Sdn Bhd, PUSAKA’s newest partner in implementing bamboo planting in Samalaju.
In a statement released today, PUSAKA reaffirmed its commitment as an agency dedicated to facilitating and supporting the development and supply of raw materials for related industries, ensuring a sufficient and cost-effective supply to meet the industry’s needs in Sarawak.
Moreover, PFASB aims to be a pioneer in the use of bamboo as a fuel source for heavy industries in Samalaju.
Both PUSAKA and PFASB hope that their collaborative efforts will foster the development of the bamboo industry, ultimately benefiting all residents of the state.
The programme, held on Nov 3 at PFASB in the Samalaju Industrial Park, is a result of a collaboration between PUSAKA and PFASB, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between PUSAKA, PFASB, and the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) on Nov 1, 2023.
