KUCHING: The Sarawak government will introduce two new rules under the Environmental Ordinance (Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction), 2023.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the two new rules namely Qualification and Registration of Accredited External Auditors Rules, 2024 will be on the qualification and registration of auditors, and the Flaring and Venting Rules, 2024, determines the gas emission regulations.
“The first rule is to make sure all the reports are being audited so that the reports are legit, and all the audited reports will become a data.
“The second rule will address gas emissions, specifying that they must remain below a certain degree level and cannot exceed that limit.
“Both the new rules will be monitored by officers from Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), and will be implemented by 2025,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after officiating at the State Level National Environment Day 2024 at Majma Event and Convention Centre here on Wednesday.
Earlier in his speech, Abang Johari stated that the state government has agreed to introduce both of the laws in order to ensure the environment is safe and clean.
On the Flaring and Venting Rules, 2024, Abang Johari emphasised the need to monitor the level of gas combustion, such as methane, is crucial as it can have negative effects if left uncontrolled.
“Oil companies need to be monitored because the gas released can be dangerous if not properly managed. Too much gas can lead to explosions, while excessive combustion can contribute to extreme warming, like in areas such as Bintulu,” he said.
Abang Johari explained the state government will ensure that combustion levels are regulated by the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), which will also issue licenses for such monitoring.
“We are serious about ensuring that this monitoring system is strictly implemented, and we hope the corporate sector will cooperate with the government to protect the environment.
“Education and awareness are key to ensuring our environment remains preserved,” he added.
Also present during the ceremony were Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni and NREB Controller Datuk Jack Liam.
