KUALA LUMPUR – The government’s decision to allow the forestry and timber sectors, as well as their chains involving logging, to operate as usual effective today will enable them to contribute to the country’s economic growth even during the movement control order.
Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali in a statement today said the decision is a relief to the timber industry, especially the furniture sector, nationwide, adding that it indirectly helps flood victims replenish supplies of furniture destroyed by the recent disaster.
“The furniture sector is estimated to use 85% of local raw materials for furniture production.
“As the forestry and logging sectors fall under the jurisdiction of the Energy and Natural Resources Ministry, through the Peninsular Malaysia Forestry Department, the ministry would like to express its appreciation for the cooperation extended in obtaining permission to operate the sector.”
Khairuddin said the ministry will ensure adequate supply of raw materials to the timber sector at the processing stage, as well as the production of primary and downstream products.
He also reminded all parties to comply with the standard operating procedures set by the National Security Council to prevent the operating permit from being revoked.
“The industry needs to ensure that all the rules and regulations of the Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities (Amendment) Act 2019 (Act 446) are met, involving the provision of residential facilities for workers to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
“The ministry hopes that the timber sector can continue to contribute to the economy, even in the current difficult situation.
“The sector’s trade for the January-November period last year still maintains a good performance, with an export value of RM19.8 billion despite the pandemic.” – Bernama, January 30, 2021
