Malaysia is fully aware of the need for effective forest management, conservation and development not only to ensure a sustained supply of timber and other raw materials, but also to maintain environmental stability, provide sanctuary for wildlife and to serve as an invaluable storehouse of genetic resources useful for the improvement of its indigenous tree species, agricultural crops and livestock, as well as the advancement of pharmaceutical industries. Consequently, the forest of Malaysia is managed under strict and technically oriented forest management objectives. Concerted efforts will continue to be accorded to enhance the capability of this renewable resource to ensure the realisation of its multi-functions in perpetuity, in line with the national development objectives and priorities.
Similarly, the wood-based sector or the forest industries will undergo restructuring in response to the changing supply scenario. Greater emphasis and incentives will be given to downstream processing and the innovation and development of state-of-the-art technologies in wood processing and utilisation.
Thus, the long-term viability for sound and sustainable forest management, development, conservation and utilisation in Malaysia will be one that balances the needs of the economy, environment and ecology.
