We refer to the Malaysiakini report Logging: Carrots, sticks and lies.

The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) wishes to point out that the allegation that MTCC representatives were actively involved in the blockade site to persuade the Long Benalih villagers to take down the blockade, is totally untrue.

MTCC has consistently taken the position to encourage Samling, as the manager of the MTCS-certified Sela'an Linau FMU, to discuss and negotiate with the Long Benalih villagers regarding the peaceful removal of the blockade by the villagers themselves.

The writer is attached to the Malaysian Timber Certification Council.