SARAWAK is set to assume greater autonomy over environmental governance, starting with the management of scheduled waste this year.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said this follows the passing of the Natural Resources and Environment Bill, 2024 during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting in November.
"The Sarawak Natural Resources and Environmental Board (NREB) will assume environmental responsibilities from the federal Department of Environment (DoE) beginning with the management of scheduled waste," he said during the 11th Premier of Sarawak Environmental Award (PSEA) 2023/2024 in Kuching, last night.
He said the state would support NREB with advanced tools, capacity-building initiatives, and resources to maintain excellence in environmental stewardship.
"The shift would give the state authority to craft and implement environmental policies tailored to its needs and challenges.
"It also aligns with Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which prioritises environmental sustainability and positions the state as a regional renewable energy powerhouse," he said.
Abang Johari also urged industries, communities and businesses to adopt sustainable business practices and work with the government. - January 23, 2025
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