Kota Kinabalu: Sabah retained 63 per cent of its landmass as forested areas, with 27 per cent designated as Totally Protected Areas, according to Chief Conservator of Forests Datuk Frederick Kugan.
The department also reported a revenue increase of RM16 million from timber royalties, totalling RM171 million in 2024.
This is stated in the Forestry Department’s 2024 annual report presented at State's Forestry Appreciation Ceremony on Friday.
The 288-page report was presented State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“Through teamwork and stakeholder partnerships, we are committed to sustainable forest management for Sabah’s future,” said Frederick, expressing confidence in SFD’s continued success.
Notable events during the year included hosting the 20th Malaysian Forestry Conference, where the Sabah Mangrove Action Plan was launched and participating in international forums like the Asean Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Forum and the Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Forest Landscape Restoration.
Under the Greening Malaysia Campaign, Sabah planted 23 million trees, reinforcing its commitment to reforestation.
The department also introduced carbon as a forest produce under the Forest Enactment 1968, aligning with global climate goals.
To enhance transparency and market access, the Sabah Timber Legality Assurance System (TLAS) is being revised to meet European Union regulations.
Additionally, the Sabah Jurisdictional Certified Sustainable Palm Oil (JCSPO) Initiative was launched to support smallholders through cost-effective group certification.
The department also implemented digital tools like the Aplikasi Kutipan Cukai for timber royalty assessment and the E-Ladang Hutan (Geoforest System) to improve forest management.
Forest protection efforts included training Honorary Forest Rangers and conducting Ops Khazanah operations.
The SFD was also appointed to the National Anti-Financial Crime Council (NFCC) to ensure integrity in its operations.
With 20 active Memoranda of Understanding and over 112 research publications, the department emphasised collaboration and innovation in sustainable forestry.
