Chief Minister Shafie Apdal said the committee, which is provided for under the state’s Forestry Enactment 1968, will empower the implementation and enforcement of the law in protecting Sabah’s forestry produce from any form of exploitation.
He said the people were concerned about exploitation of Sabah’s natural resources which were not only an important source of income but also a critical sanctuary for wildlife.
“The new government has touched on many forestry issues including illegal logging.
“But that is not meant to give the impression that illegal logging is rampant in Sabah now. Actually, it is to show the state’s concern towards illegal logging, leakages and other forestry crimes that may still take place,” he said in a statement today.
Shafie said the government needed to take pro-active actions.
“This is to ensure improvements are made to the efforts already taken by the government, so the forest management is more thorough and effective,” said the Semporna MP.
He added that the people would also see the benefits from the measures taken by the government.
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