Malaysia reduces its annual logging quota by 24% under the 13th Malaysia Plan, balancing timber supply with conservation and promoting eco-tourism.

PUTRAJAYA: The government has reduced the national logging quota for the 13th Malaysia Plan period as part of a strengthened commitment to sustainable forest management.

The Annual Allowable Cut in Permanent Reserved Forests is now set at 890,000 hectares, down from 1,165,300 hectares during the previous plan.

Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said this strategic step balances economic needs with forest preservation.

He stated the measure positively impacts conservation while ensuring a stable, continuous timber supply for industry.

The forestry and agriculture sectors contributed RM6.006 billion to the national gross domestic product in 2025.

“This simultaneously demonstrates a positive economic impact through sustainable forest management activities,” he said in a statement for International Day of Forests.

The ministry is actively empowering forest-based ecotourism areas with unique natural characteristics.

Arthur said this initiative supports state authorities in reducing dependence on conventional forest exploitation.

It aligns with efforts to transform the logging sector towards more sustainable ecotourism development.

The 81st National Land Council Meeting agreed states should prioritise a specific fiscal transfer for biodiversity conservation.

This allocation is to finance improvements for the online permit process for forest-based ecotourism activities.

The Forest Research Institute Malaysia also plays an active role in raising community awareness on conservation.

It provides training and technical guidance to rural communities on the importance of sustainability.

Involved communities include associations and cooperatives in Pahang, Jerantut, Kelantan and Terengganu.

“As a result of this guidance, the local community is now capable of managing and conducting eco-tourism and recreation-based activities,” Arthur said.

He added this is done without compromising the forest ecosystem.

Arthur also said biodiversity-rich forests are a valuable heritage that must be preserved.

“Therefore, continuous commitment to preserving and conserving these assets is crucial,” he added.

International Day of Forests is celebrated annually on March 21 to raise public awareness.

This year’s theme is ‘Forests and Economies’, highlighting their role in global economic prosperity.

 The Sun Malaysia