PRESS RELEASE

The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul
Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak witnessed the
historic signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between
Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), Bintulu
Development Authority (BDA), and Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd. This
transformative agreement, represents a significant stride towards a more
sustainable future.

Bamboo, as emphasized by the Premier, seamlessly aligns with the Global

Agenda Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production. This alignment
underscores bamboo products as environmentally friendly and sustainable
alternatives to traditional materials such as plastic and wood. Furthermore, it
resonates with the PCDS 2030 vision, which seeks to promote social
inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity, ultimately
propelling the vision of a "Sarawak Maju Makmur" or a "Prosperous
Sarawak."

The MoU itself is a momentous achievement that underscores its profound

significance. It encapsulates a commitment to several pivotal objectives.
Foremost, it signifies a dedicated effort to strengthen the collaboration
between STIDC, BDA, and Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd. The MoU reflects
a shared aspiration to cultivate the Samalaju area with sustainable bamboo
species, a pivotal step towards promoting environmental sustainability.
Moreover, it lays the groundwork for a sustainable supply of raw materials to
Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd, thus ensuring the continuity of their
operations. Most importantly, this initiative underscores a concerted effort to
empower the local community by involving them in bamboo plantation
activities, a crucial avenue for enhancing their socio-economic well-being.

In the context of the MoU, STIDC and BDA have solidified a comprehensive
partnership. Their collaboration encompasses the provision of high-quality
bamboo seedlings to various project initiatives, communities, and
commercial entities. Furthermore, STIDC and BDA bring their invaluable
technical expertise to oversee the entire spectrum of bamboo planting and
management processes. This MoU is emblematic of a significant step
towards sustainable development and environmental conservation, with both

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organizations working synergistically to harness the versatile and eco-
friendly qualities of bamboo for the benefit of the area.

The Honourable Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Deputy Premier
of Sarawak and Chairman of STIDC Board of Management said, STIDC has
set an ambitious target to establish a minimum of 10,000 hectares of
commercial bamboo plantations and allocate 1,640 hectares for bamboo
cultivation for the local community by 2030. This visionary goal underscores
their unwavering commitment to sustainable bamboo forestry and
community development.

As of September 2023, substantial progress has been achieved in

collaboration with the industry, with approximately 2,765.5 hectares of
bamboo planted. In terms of local community involvement, 137 participants
have registered with STIDC, contributing to a planting area of 58.5 hectares.
These accomplishments represent tangible strides towards achieving the
ambitious goals set forth in this transformative initiative, fostering
sustainability and enhancing the well-being of the local community.

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