M'sia upholds 54pct forest cover in sustainability push - Johari
Malaysia is dedicated to sustainable forestry, maintaining 54 percent of its total land area under forest cover.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Johari Abdul Ghani said the country is committed to striking a balance between economic activity and environmental protection.
“Malaysia has committed that we will take...
Malaysia is dedicated to sustainable forestry, maintaining 54 percent of its total land area under forest cover.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Johari Abdul Ghani said the country is committed to striking a balance between economic activity and environmental protection.
“Malaysia has committed that we will take care of our forests, and that is why we have preserved more than 50 percent of our forest area.
“So, the number is still maintained, and as of now, we have 54 percent,” he told reporters after officiating the Malaysian Wood Expo (MWE) 2025 in Kuala Lumpur today.
This figure also surpasses its pledge to preserve at least 50 percent of its landmass as forest reserves.
Johari said this reflects Malaysia’s dedication to responsible forest management, ensuring that growth in the timber sector is aligned with sustainability principles.
He said to remain competitive, the wood industry must focus on creativity, quality craftsmanship, and sustainability.
“What is important in the wood industry is, first, we must be creative; secondly, our craftsmanship must be good.
“Third, we must practise sustainability in the products we sell, and if we have these three, that is a winning formula to export our products abroad,” he said.
Timber industry
Earlier, in his speech, Johari highlighted that the Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP) programme plays a vital role in ensuring a long-term and renewable raw material supply for Malaysia’s timber industry while reducing dependency on natural forests.
“The ITP programme is essential to provide a steady and sustainable source of raw material. This not only reduces pressure on natural forests but also supports the growth of our downstream industry,” he said.
He added that as of October 2025, 5.85 million hectares of Malaysian forests have been certified under the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS), endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).
This places Malaysia among the top 10 countries globally with the largest PEFC-certified forest area, he said.
“Malaysia stands ready to serve as your trusted gateway to the dynamic Asean timber market, with strong trade links, a credible certification system, and a solid reputation for sustainability,” he said.
- Bernama
