Latest news with #LandAdministrationandEnvironment
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Len Talif: Mangrove licence holders statewide will need Permit to Enter Coupe before beginning operations
File photo of a mangrove forest in Bako. KUCHING (May 23): Mangrove licence holders across Sarawak will soon be required to apply for a Permit to Enter Coupe (PEC) before they can begin operations, said Datuk Len Talif Salleh. The Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment said at present, PEC is already being enforced in the Sarikei area, particularly the Rajang Basin. He explained that the PEC is an official document issued by the Sarawak Forest Department to logging licence holders, including those with mangrove licences, before they are allowed to operate. 'The PEC is part of the management and control process for logging operations, ensuring that all related activities are carried out legally and in compliance with established regulations and standard operating procedures. 'Before a PEC is issued, licensees are required to submit a Forest Engineering Plan, which includes a General Harvesting Plan and a Detailed Harvesting Plan. 'However, for mangrove licence areas, only the General Harvesting Plan is required,' he said during the question-and-answer session in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) here today. He pointed out a PEC is valid for nine months and allows licensees to commence logging within designated harvesting blocks, ensuring that all activities are regulated and systematic. He was responding to a question from Azizul Annuar Adenan (GPS-Tanjong Datu), who had asked about PEC enforcement for mangrove licence holders. Len Talif said the Forest Department held a PEC briefing session for mangrove licence holders on Feb 10 at the Kuching Regional Forest Office. 'The renewal of mangrove licences must comply with DF Circular No. 2/2019 (Restoration Programme within Licensed Area), which requires replanting of mangrove trees in equal or greater numbers than those harvested. 'Starting from the Sarikei area, particularly in the Rajang Basin, and eventually be enforced throughout Sarawak,' he said. When responding to a supplementary question, Len Talif outlined the key benefits of PEC enforcement for mangrove areas. 'First, it ensures that mangrove wood resources in Sarawak are managed systematically and sustainably by limiting logging areas based on a reasonable harvesting cycle and enforcing a minimum cutting diameter of no less than 10cm DBH (diameter at breast height),' he explained. He noted that extraction is monitored through pre-harvest stock inventories, helping to prevent over-harvesting and ensuring long-term resource availability. 'This is also to prevent logging outside licensed areas and curbs illegal logging activities in mangrove forests,' he said. In addition, Len Talif said the PEC framework will enhance coastal conservation efforts and strengthen governance in mangrove forest management, aligning with Sarawak's climate change mitigation strategies. 'Ultimately, it ensures that mangrove logging is carried out in a controlled and orderly manner, minimising ecological impact while supporting the sustainability of the mangrove wood industry and the socioeconomic wellbeing of local communities,' he added. lead Len Talif Salleh Permit to Enter Coupe
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Len Talif: 30 areas in Opar approved for NCR land perimeter surveys, over 1,400 titles issued
Len Talif said 10 villages have been approved. Of these, two villages have been fully surveyed, with 415 land titles issued for one of them. – Roy KUCHING (May 22): A total of 30 areas within the Opar constituency have been approved for perimeter surveys of Native Customary Rights (NCR) land as of April 30 this year, said Sarawak Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh. Of the 30 areas, 26 have been surveyed, with 18 gazetted as Native Communal Reserves (Agriculture) while several other areas are still undergoing the survey process, including one facing objections, he said. 'In the second phase, nine areas have been approved for individual lot surveys, with three areas completed and five others still in progress,' said Len Talif at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today, in response to a question from Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang. He also reported that 1,411 land titles have been issued under Section 18 of the Sarawak Land Code. Regarding traditional village land surveys, Len Talif said 10 villages have been approved. Of these, two villages have been fully surveyed, with 415 land titles issued for one of them. 'Surveys for the remaining eight villages will commence soon, subject to the readiness of the land claimants on the ground,' he added. During a supplementary question session, Len Talif emphasised that the effectiveness of the survey process depends heavily on cooperation from the applicants. 'Land claimants must be prepared for their land to be surveyed by identifying and marking boundaries, and by submitting a rough sketch plan along with a list of claimants' names,' he explained. He noted that areas affected by disputes or the absence of claimant presence in the field have experienced delays in the survey process. 'Let us work together to resolve any disputes and disagreements among claimants to ensure the successful surveying of individual lots and the timely issuance of land titles,' he said. On the survey of 'pemakai menoa' and 'pulau galau' (native territorial domain), Len Talif said that Sarawak Bumiputera communities may submit their claims by completing the NTD A form, which is available at the Land and Survey Department counters or can be downloaded from the department's website. DUN Land Survey Len Talif NCR
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Proposed Tanah Putih–Parit Bugis bridge, road upgrades to enhance Sarikei's agropark plans, says Premier
Abang Johari speaks during the Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Haji Bujang Bin Tuanku Othman Bridge opening ceremony today. – Ukas photo SARIKEI (May 17): A new bridge linking Tanah Putih and Parit Bugis across the Batang Rajang River will be constructed to support the revitalisation of the agricultural sector and the development of a modern agropark in the region, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. This initiative, he added, aligns with Sarawak government's ongoing efforts to enhance rural infrastructure and improve accessibility for local communities, while reaffirming the state government's commitment to improving connectivity in the area, including plans to upgrade the road leading to the agropark. 'At our recent meeting, Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, informed me that the road to the agropark is still in poor condition. Since the agropark is designed to be modern, the access road must also meet that standard. 'We have therefore decided to upgrade the road, and this includes the construction of the bridge to Parit Bugis, which is located nearby,' he said in a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report during the official opening of the Datuk Patinggi Tuanku Haji Bujang Bin Tuanku Othman Bridge today. Once a hub for traditional farming, Abang Johari said the area continues to produce agricultural goods and has now been earmarked as a prime site for agropark development. This, he added, reflects its potential to be transformed through structured and modern agricultural initiatives. In addition, Abang Johari announced two proposed infrastructure projects: the upgrading of the Bintangor–Sarikei road and the construction of a new route from Jalan Pasi to the Pan Borneo Highway. 'For the Bintangor–Sarikei road, we will seek funding either through the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) or via the Rajang Delta Development Agency (RADDA). 'The road connecting Jalan Pasi to the Pan Borneo Highway will also proceed. While the project is costly, political stability and public unity will help us achieve this goal,' he said. Earlier, Len Talif submitted proposals to upgrade a 14-kilometre stretch of the Bintangor–Sarikei road from JKR U3 to U5 standards, along with plans for an 11-kilometre JKR U3 road connecting Jalan Pasi to the Pan Borneo Highway. Also present at the event were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas; State Minister of Utility and Telecommunications Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii; Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department Datuk Abdullah Saidol; State Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo; Deputy State Secretary Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel; State Infrastructure Ministry Permanent Secretary Datu Chiew Chee Yau, State Public Works Department (JKR) director Dr Cassidy Morris, and other officials and invited guests. abang johari agropark Batang Rajang lead new bridge Parit Bugis Tanah Putih
Borneo Post
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Sarawak to tie up with Digital Ministry on hosting global-scale digital exhibition
Abang Johari (centre) launches JMD at Tegas Digital Village. Also seen from right are Len Talif, Gobind, and Ugak. – Penerangan photo KUCHING (May 16): Sarawak is looking forward to collaborating with the Digital Ministry on hosting a global-scale digital exhibition in the state. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg hinted that the event next year will involve contributions from both the Sarawak and federal governments. 'We will then invite major global players to come here to share their input and expertise, enabling you to enhance your creativity, improve your content, and establish a global network. 'What is important is establishing a global network, as the global economy now is under one platform,' Abang Johari said when launching Jelajah Malaysia Digital (JMD) at Tegas Digital Village here today. He also revealed that a new project will be launched, though details remain under wraps for now. He said the initiative will contribute to the development of the entire spectrum of Sarawak's digital economy. Separately, Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo said he proposed holding the global event in Sarawak to bring major industry players from around the world to Malaysia. 'I think it's important for them to see our efforts and how we can work together. 'I mentioned on stage that we should look into the possibility of hosting a global event here in Malaysia, and I am happy to note that the Premier has accepted the invitation,' he said. Gobind said the proposed event, likely to take place in early 2026, aims to attract global players in the animation and gaming industries. 'If they come here, we will see new possibilities and opportunities for our local sector to collaborate with international players and showcase our products on the global stage. 'In fact, if you go to international events, you'll find many Malaysians already participating and gaining recognition, especially in animation and gaming,' he told reporters. Gobind said this is the right time to escalate efforts and position Malaysia as a hub for the industry, and expressed hope that the upcoming event would mark a step in that direction. Earlier in his speech, Gobind said Sarawak has the potential to become Malaysia's creative digital content hub, as well as a key player in the Asean region. He noted that Sarawak's tourism sector also showed encouraging signs, recording 3.92 million visitors in 2023 and contributing over RM10 billion to the national economy. 'With this potential, digital content can serve as a bridge connecting Sarawak's heritage, culture, and identity to the global audience. 'This not only expands our reach, but also focuses on how we can elevate the value and uniqueness of the state,' he said. Among those present were Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh, who is Tegas chairman, as well as Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong. abang johari digital ministry Gobind Singh Deo
Borneo Post
22-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Abg Jo: Kuching to be more vibrant with comprehensive infrastructure transformation
Abang Johari (fourth right) lights up the DBKU building in Bukit Siol during the event. – Photo by Churchill Edward KUCHING (April 22): Kuching will be more vibrant within the next few years with comprehensive infrastructure transformation and modern waste management system projects, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The Premier said various development projects are being implemented and will be implemented through comprehensive planning, including the latest transport technology and restructuring the city's management system. 'We are upgrading the infrastructure as explained by the (Kuching North) Datuk Bandar (Datuk Hilmy Othman), including roads and modern public transport systems such as ART (Autonomous Rapid Transit). All of this requires careful planning and comprehensive implementation,' he said at the Kuching North City Commission's (DBKU) Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri 2025 last night. 'The mayors, elected representatives, and community are to work together to ensure that Kuching remains vibrant, modernised, and having a multicultural society with people living in peace and harmony.' He cited several major projects currently underway, such as the development of an underpass near the Darul Hana mosque at Jalan Tun Salahuddin; the upgrading of the road to a dual carriageway from the roundabout near the Yayasan Sarawak Complex to the Damai resort area; and the construction of dedicated ART lanes to Damai, which has been approved and will begin this year. In addition, he said a new bridge will be constructed across Sungai Santubong to connect the Damai, Buntal, and Bako areas, which is expected to open new housing areas and promote local economic growth. 'In (Demak Laut assemblyman) Datuk Hazland (Abang) Hipni's area, we are building a bridge in Sejingkat that will connect Kampung Beliong, in addition to upgrading the surrounding infrastructure,' he said, explaining that it would involve connecting Tanjong Embang, where the new international airport will be built. In the context of solid waste management, he said the state government has decided to use modern incinerator technology, as part of the 'waste to energy' approach that will cover two main zones – the Southern Zone from Kuching to Betong and the Northern Zone from Sibu to Miri. 'This is a big investment, but it is important for the sustainability of our city. (Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment) Datuk Len Talif Salleh will lead the implementation of this project,' Abang Johari said. In Satok, his former constituency, Abang Johari said the unique Bintangor Bridge will improve the landscape of Kampung Masjid and Jalan Haji Taha, while the development of the Kuching Waterfront extension from the Bintangor Bridge to Satok Bridge has the potential to become the longest waterfront in the country. On plans to revive the Old Kuching Smart Heritage (OKSHE) initiative, he said it will strengthen the preservation of historical areas and cultural heritage in Kuching. He said the focus will be the restoration of Rumah Batu in the Kuching Division Mosque area. 'Recently, I was invited by the heirs of Rumah Batu (residence of Datu Bandar Abang Muhammad Kassim Datu Bandar Abang Bolhassan), who expressed their intention to hand over the building to a waqaf trust. 'If this becomes a reality, God willing, we will be able to further beautify the area around the Divisional Mosque,' he said. He added the redevelopment of the area would also complement the development project in Padang Pasir, which will be the main location of the ART station in future. Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri; Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission, and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi. abang johari ART DBKU lead Old Kuching Smart Heritage
