30-04-2025
NREB unveils auditor guidelines for carbon reporting under new emissions law
Participants listen attentively to a presentation during the stakeholder engagement session.
KUCHING (May 1): The Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) hosted a stakeholder engagement session to introduce the upcoming Guidelines for the Qualifications and Registration of Accredited External Auditors Rules 2025 at a hotel here yesterday.
The session began with an opening remark by Controller of Environmental Quality Datu Jack Liam.
Also present were Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS) chief executive officer Busiai Seman, Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability (MEESty) Development and Sustainability Division head Elizabeth Nyomek, along with representatives from business entities in the energy and oil and gas (O&G) sectors, and auditing firms.
According to a press release, the initiative is part of NREB's ongoing efforts to implement the Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance 2023, which came into force on March 1, 2024.
The Ordinance mandates business entities in designated economic sectors to submit annual carbon emission reports, which must be verified by Accredited External Auditors in accordance with Section 6(3).
The engagement session brought together stakeholders from the O&G and energy sectors, audit firms, and key strategic partners.
The Qualifications and Registration of Accredited External Auditors Rules 2025, effective May 1, outlines the critical requirements for the accrediting external auditors.
'The session aimed not only to clarify key requirements but also to actively involve stakeholders by seeking feedback, addressing concerns, and gathering valuable perspectives,' the press release read.
'These contributions are essential to ensure the guidelines are practical, effective, and fair ― ultimately supporting successful implementation of the Ordinance.'
The event also featured a demonstration of the Greenhouse Gas Management System (GHG-MS) prototype by SAINS, a digital platform that streamlines business and auditor registrations and renewals.
'NREB remains committed to continuous stakeholder engagement to ensure its regulatory frameworks are both practical and impactful as Sarawak continues to lead in advancing environmental sustainability initiatives,' it added.
