KUCHING: Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) has stepped up efforts to realign the timber and non-wood forest products sector with the targets under the Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 through a two-day strategy review workshop held from 12 to 13 November.

The workshop gathered more than 70 participants from government agencies, the Sarawak Timber Association (STA), the Sarawak Furniture Industry Association (SFIA) and major industry players such as Harwood Timber Sdn Bhd.

The session provided a platform to reassess progress, address gaps and refine the sector’s strategic direction for the 2026–2030 period.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development, Datu Abdullah Julaihi, highlighted the sector’s importance, noting that it supports around 12,000 direct jobs and recorded RM2.8 billion in exports last year.

He said the figures reflect a significant gap to the PCDS2030 export target of RM8 billion, underscoring the need for stronger strategies moving forward.

“This workshop is both timely and essential. It allows us to take stock of our progress, identify gaps and realign effective strategies to meet our ambitious export goals,” he said.

He emphasised the need to secure sustainable raw materials through certified forest management and encouraged the industry to explore planted forests, rubberwood, bamboo and biomass.

Datu Abdullah also highlighted ongoing government efforts, including forest certification, conservation initiatives and carbon trading, to ensure Sarawak remains competitive in global markets.

He noted that the industry continues to face challenges driven by economic uncertainty, geopolitical shifts, climate change and evolving market demands.

STIDC will compile the workshop’s findings into a comprehensive report to guide policy refinement, strengthen institutional coordination and support long-term sector development.

Datu Abdullah reaffirmed that the timber sector remains a key pillar under PCDS2030, adding that continued collaboration and effective strategies will position Sarawak for sustainable growth. -UKASnews