Publication

This book introduces the global scenario of illegal logging and subsequent responses by consumer countries, and further describes the forestry and timber industry in Sarawak, and the role of Sarawak Timber Association (STA) respectively. Mainly, it details the general concerns for the VPA: its premise and the conditionalities, highlighting the negative implications for and impact on the Sarawak forestry and timber industry.

The Forest Department Sarawak and STA have produced seven (7) Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) Handbooks to facilitate ground crews in carrying out specific tasks related to the implementation of RIL. These handbooks are based on the RIL Guidelines for ground-based timber harvesting in the State of Sarawak. Each handbook is available in English and translated into Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin, making them multilingual and ensuring accessibility for a wider audience. The handbooks were launched during the International Conference on Sustainable Management of Tropical Forest on 6 March 2024, at the Hilton Hotel, Kuching.

You may download the handbooks below:
Handbook 1 - Survey Crew [Survey and demarcation of boundaries (licence coupe, blocks and protection areas)]
Handbook 2 – Survey Crew (Pre-felling inventory; survey, demarcation and mapping of skid trail alignment)
Handbook 3 – Tree Feller
Handbook 4 – Tractor Operator and Hookman
Handbook 5 – Road Construction Crew
Handbook 6 – RIL Supervisor
Handbook 7 - Person in-charge on Safety & Health

On the first anniversary of YABhg Tun Pehin Sri (Dr.) Haji Abdul Taib bin Mahmud’s passing, the Sarawak Timber Association (STA) proudly presents a commemorative book celebrating his transformative contributions to Sarawak’s timber industry. Titled A Tribute to Taib Mahmud, this book delves into the life, leadership, and enduring legacy of a visionary leader whose influence fundamentally reshaped the timber sector in Sarawak.

The book begins with a detailed account of Tun Taib’s early life, education, and formative career, laying the foundation for his rise to prominence in Sarawak’s political and economic landscape. It highlights his pivotal role as Chief Minister and his unwavering dedication to advancing the state’s development, with the timber industry as a cornerstone of economic growth.

Central to this tribute is Tun Taib’s encouragement and support of the 1988 restructuring of the STA, an achievement that redefined the timber industry. The narrative explores how his leadership fostered stability, collaboration, and innovation, steering the industry through challenges and towards sustainable progress.

Readers will discover key policies and initiatives championed under Tun Taib’s leadership, which spurred economic growth while integrating sustainability into timber practices. The book also examines the impact of STA’s collaborative efforts on the private sector, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges that shaped Sarawak’s timber industry.

In addition to documenting these milestones, the book reflects on Tun Taib’s lasting legacy. It captures his profound influence on modern timber industry practices and the enduring relevance of STA’s initiatives. With a rich narrative and thoughtful analysis, A Tribute to Taib Mahmud stands as both a tribute to an exceptional leader and a testament to his lasting impact on Sarawak’s timber industry and economic prosperity.

If you are interested in receiving a copy of book please contact us here.

The “Guidance Document on Interpreting Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Terms and Conditions for Forestry Sector Projects in Sarawak” was developed through close collaboration between the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) and the STA Environmental Compliance Audit (ECA) Working Group, with support from the Forest Department Sarawak.

It serves as a practical reference and guide to help the forestry sector, including internal and external auditors as well as project proponents, interpret and comply with the Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) of approved EIA reports, ensuring these requirements are effectively implemented, monitored, and reported. It directly supports the implementation of the ECA under the Natural Resources and Environment (Audit) Rules, 2008, by bridging the gap between regulatory requirements and on-ground practices to promote consistent environmental management and compliance across the sector.

The Guidance Document, launched by The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg at the Hari Alam Sekitar Negara 2025 Peringkat Sarawak celebration held at Roxy Beach Resort, Sematan on 29 October 2025, includes sector-specific interpretations and reference tables for two key forestry activities in Sarawak’s hill forests, namely (i) timber harvesting, and (ii) industrial forest plantation development.

PUBLICATION