A sum of RM48mil has been earmarked for the implementation of forestry projects under the 2024 Sarawak Budget.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said from the sum, RM5mil will be allocated for the Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) programme in 2024.
“The FLR programme plays a significant role in Sarawak’s environmental sustainability goal, aiming to restore ecological integrity and enhance the productivity and economic value of degraded forest landscapes through initiatives such as tree replanting.”
He noted that RM3mil from the RM16.5mil allocation under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) has been set aside for the development and upgrading of facilities at selected Totally Protected Areas (TPA), and RM1mil allocated for the effective management and protection of TPA.
“Sarawak has set a target to designate one million hectares of Sarawak landmass as a TPA by 2025.
“As of the second quarter of this year, 2.1 million hectares have been gazetted as TPA, managed to generate sustainable benefits for society through the conservation and protection of wildlife and their habitat, preservation of specific natural geological or physiological features, landscapes, of special interest for archaeological, recreational, education or conservation purposes and facilitating study and research on the biodiversity of the state.”
Abang Johari was tabling the 2024 Sarawak Budget during the first day of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Monday (Nov 20).
The Minister for Finance and New Economy added that two Watershed Spatial Master Plans will be developed for the Balui and Baleh watersheds, with a 12MP ceiling of RM3mil, of which RM1.2mil will be allocated in 2024.
“The Watershed Spatial Master Plans will guide coordination and integrate land use planning and management for development, water resources, and environmental protection.
“These plans will specify areas to be set aside for protection, such as flood risk zones, riparian buffers, and others, prior to other land use planning.”
