The Sarawak Timber Association (STA) has called on the State Government to suspend the newly implemented renewal fee for Forest-Wood Transport Authorisations (FWTA), maintaining that it imposes an undue strain on timber businesses already contending with volatile markets and increased overheads.

STA president Mr. Yong Seng Poh noted that the RM10-per-cubic-metre charge, unveiled late last year, aimed to support forest conservation and enforcement initiatives. Nevertheless, he pointed out that many SMEs in the timber sector are still rebounding from pandemic-induced setbacks, and this additional levy could further erode their already thin profit margins.

“The timber industry continues to be one of Sarawak’s main economic cornerstones,” Yong remarked, “yet our members report that the FWTA renewal charge hampers efforts to boost export competitiveness and maintain rural jobs.” He added that liquidity constraints, supply-chain holdups, and unpredictable global demand make this an inopportune moment to levy extra charges.

To alleviate the burden, the STA has suggested a provisional exemption from the FWTA renewal fee until the sector’s performance steadies. Simultaneously, the association urges the government to investigate other funding options—like selective levies on premium wood products or collaborations with certification organisations—that would support forest management and safeguard timber workers’ livelihoods.

“We stand ready to engage with the Forestry Department, the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, and other pertinent agencies to develop an equitable resolution,” Yong said. “Our aim is to secure sustainable forest stewardship without compromising the competitiveness of Sarawak’s timber exporters.”

The STA anticipates that state authorities will earnestly consider its proposal at the upcoming forest-sector consultative session, aiming to bolster industry resilience and uphold Sarawak’s standing in international timber markets.

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