Latest news with #Zainal
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Malaysia timber trade hits RM9.95 bln in Q1 2025, eyes RM4 bln furniture exports by 2030
Zainal (seated centre) joins members of the newly installed SFIA 2025-2028 committee for a group photo. KUCHING (July 20): Malaysia's total trade value for timber and timber products, including exports and imports, reached RM9.95 billion in the first four months of this year, said Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) general manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah. He said exports contributed RM7.18 billion, signifying a strong demand for Malaysian timber products, while imports stood at RM2.767 billion, reflecting healthy domestic use and a well-connected supply chain. Wooden furniture took the lead in exports, bringing in RM3 billion, followed by plywood (RM742.5 million), sawn timber (RM582.5 million), and fibreboard (RM210 million). 'Last year, our timber exports reached RM22.9 billion, a solid 4.9 per cent increase from the previous year. This steady growth shows how resilient and adaptable our industry truly is,' Zainal said during the Sarawak Furniture Industry Association's (SFIA) 17th committee installation dinner held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Friday. He said Sarawak's timber export earnings reached RM2.84 billion last year, a slight decrease from RM3.14 billion in 2023. 'More than numbers, these achievements underscore the timber industry's important role not only in driving Malaysia's economy but also in creating jobs and supporting communities, especially in rural areas,' he said. According to Zainal, innovation in design remains vital as Sarawak adapts to changing market trends, while efforts to expand market access through trade fairs and export programmes are opening doors worldwide. However, he pointed out that material shortages are a significant hurdle, with Malaysia importing up to 60 per cent of its raw materials like timber, hardware, and fabrics. 'Sarawak, despite its rich timber resources, often exports raw wood rather than finished products, limiting value-added opportunities. 'In addition, our industry relies heavily on foreign workers, which affects skills retention and innovation. Locally, there is a shortage of skilled craftsmen and designers, which slows productivity and the adoption of new technologies,' he added. Zainal also said Sarawak faces competition from emerging markets, such as China and Vietnam, while limited access to advanced technology and a small domestic market restrict growth. He added that environmental regulations and concerns about deforestation add further complexity, requiring sustainable practices that can be costly and difficult to implement. 'Despite these challenges, there is great potential for Sarawak's furniture industry, which can carve out a stronger position in the global market by investing in skills development, innovation, and sustainable practices,' he emphasised. On STIDC, Zainal said a comprehensive Furniture Industry Blueprint has been developed to map out a clear, strategic pathway for the sector's growth, encompassing product development, supply chain strengthening, and market expansion. 'In collaboration with the SFIA, STIDC is actively compiling a detailed database of member companies and their offerings, which will serve as a foundation for this blueprint. 'Through joint brainstorming sessions, we aim to establish a robust and integrated supply chain that supports our ambition to achieve RM4 billion in furniture export revenue by 2030,' he added. Meanwhile, SFIA president Leo Chiang said the furniture industry in Sarawak is facing an increasingly complex landscape, shaped by global and local shifts. 'Challenges – including the US tariffs affecting exports, Malaysia's expanded SST (Sales and Services Tax) raising operational costs, and the introduction of FWTA (Foreign Workers Transformation Approach) in Sarawak – add intense pressure and demand closer collaboration with stakeholders. 'Now, more than ever, we must work together to stay resilient and competitive,' he stressed. Chiang also said they look forward to even closer cooperation with STIDC in shaping policies, facilitating training, supporting innovation, and promoting Sarawak-made furniture on the global stage. 'We must also remain committed to developing our SMEs (small and medium enterprises), uplifting design capabilities, embracing sustainable practices, and grooming the next generation of industry players,' he added. *Editor's note: This article has been amended for accuracy. lead stidc timber trade Zainal Abidin Abdullah
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak timber trade hits RM9.95 bln in Q1 2025, eyes RM4 bln furniture exports by 2030
Zainal (seated centre) joins members of the newly installed SFIA 2025-2028 committee for a group photo. KUCHING (July 20): Sarawak's total trade value for timber and timber products, including exports and imports, reached RM9.95 billion in the first four months of this year, said Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) general manager Zainal Abidin Abdullah. He said exports contributed RM7,183 billion, signifying a strong demand for Malaysian timber products, while imports stood at RM2.767 billion, reflecting healthy domestic use and a well-connected supply chain. Wooden furniture took the lead in exports, bringing in RM3,083.4 million, followed by plywood (RM742.5 million), sawn timber (RM582.5 million), and fibreboard (RM210 million). 'Last year, our timber exports reached RM22.9 billion, a solid 4.9 per cent increase from the previous year. This steady growth shows how resilient and adaptable our industry truly is,' Zainal said during the Sarawak Furniture Industry Association's (SFIA) 17th committee installation dinner held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Friday. He added that Sarawak's timber export earnings reached RM2.84 billion last year, a slight decrease from RM3.14 billion in 2023. 'More than numbers, these achievements underscore the timber industry's important role not only in driving Malaysia's economy but also in creating jobs and supporting communities, especially in rural areas,' he said. According to Zainal, innovation in design remains vital as Sarawak adapts to changing market trends, while efforts to expand market access through trade fairs and export programmes are opening doors worldwide. However, he pointed out that material shortages are a significant hurdle, with Malaysia importing up to 60 per cent of its raw materials like timber, hardware, and fabrics. 'Sarawak, despite its rich timber resources, often exports raw wood rather than finished products, limiting value-added opportunities. 'In addition, our industry relies heavily on foreign workers, which affects skills retention and innovation. Locally, there is a shortage of skilled craftsmen and designers, which slows productivity and the adoption of new technologies,' he added. Zainal also said Sarawak faces competition from emerging markets, such as China and Vietnam, while limited access to advanced technology and a small domestic market restrict growth. He added that environmental regulations and concerns about deforestation add further complexity, requiring sustainable practices that can be costly and difficult to implement. 'Despite these challenges, there is great potential for Sarawak's furniture industry, which can carve out a stronger position in the global market by investing in skills development, innovation, and sustainable practices,' he emphasised. On STIDC, Zainal said a comprehensive Furniture Industry Blueprint has been developed to map out a clear, strategic pathway for the sector's growth, encompassing product development, supply chain strengthening, and market expansion. 'In collaboration with the SFIA, STIDC is actively compiling a detailed database of member companies and their offerings, which will serve as a foundation for this blueprint. 'Through joint brainstorming sessions, we aim to establish a robust and integrated supply chain that supports our ambition to achieve RM4 billion in furniture export revenue by 2030,' he added. Meanwhile, SFIA president Leo Chiang said the furniture industry in Sarawak is facing an increasingly complex landscape, shaped by global and local shifts. 'Challenges – including the US tariffs affecting exports, Malaysia's expanded SST (Sales and Services Tax) raising operational costs, and the introduction of FWTA (Foreign Workers Transformation Approach) in Sarawak – add intense pressure and demand closer collaboration with stakeholders. 'Now, more than ever, we must work together to stay resilient and competitive,' he stressed. Chiang also said they look forward to even closer cooperation with STIDC in shaping policies, facilitating training, supporting innovation, and promoting Sarawak-made furniture on the global stage. 'We must also remain committed to developing our SMEs (small and medium enterprises), uplifting design capabilities, embracing sustainable practices, and grooming the next generation of industry players,' he added. lead stidc timber trade Zainal Abidin Abdullah
The Sun
11-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Harimau Malaya aims for top 100 FIFA ranking, says Zainal
KUALA LUMPUR: National football legend Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan is optimistic that the Harimau Malaya squad can achieve a top 100 FIFA ranking in the coming years. Speaking after the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and Bank Islam strategic partnership signing ceremony, Zainal credited Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail for sparking a revival in Malaysian football. 'Alhamdulillah, this is a proud achievement for the Malaysian footballing fraternity. We pray that the Harimau Malaya squad can continue to improve their world ranking,' said Zainal, who serves as FAM Competitions Committee deputy chairman. He stressed the importance of sustained support for the national team, which has struggled internationally for years. The Harimau Malaya recently climbed six spots to 125th in FIFA's latest rankings, matching their best position from February 2006. Strong performances, including a 1-1 draw with Cape Verde and a 4-0 victory over Vietnam in Asian Cup qualifiers, contributed to the rise. Thailand remains Southeast Asia's highest-ranked team at 102nd, followed by Vietnam (113th) and Indonesia (118th). FAM Marketing and Sponsorship Committee deputy chairman CP Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri praised Bank Islam's long-term commitment, noting their partnership since 2013. 'This collaboration strengthens football development and inspires a sustainable ecosystem,' he said. Bank Islam's Mizan Masram expressed gratitude for the renewed two-year agreement, reinforcing their role in national football growth. - Bernama
Sinar Daily
11-07-2025
- Business
- Sinar Daily
Harimau Malaya on right track to be ranked among world's top 100
Zainal said the Harimau Malaya revolution sparked by Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail could improve the quality of the national squad. 11 Jul 2025 01:38pm The national team is hoped to face higher-ranked opponents in future friendly matches. Photo: Facebook The national team is hoped to face higher-ranked opponents in future friendly matches. Photo: Facebook KUALA LUMPUR - National football legend Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan is confident that the Harimau Malaya squad can rise to be ranked among the world's top 100 in a few years' time. Zainal, who is also the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Competitions Committee deputy chairman, said the Harimau Malaya revolution sparked by Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail could improve the quality of the national squad. "Alhamdulillah, this is a proud achievement for the Malaysian footballing fraternity. We pray that the Harimau Malaya squad can continue to improve their world ranking. "What's important is that the football fraternity continues to provide proper support for the Harimau Malaya to progress because they have been lagging at the international level for so long,' he said. He told reporters this after the FAM and Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (Bank Islam) strategic cooperation signing ceremony, which was also attended by FAM honorary president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohamad Amin and Bank Islam Group chief business officer (retail banking) Mizan Masram. Yesterday, the Malaysian men's football team climbed up six spots to be ranked 125th in the world based on FIFA's latest ranking list, thus equalling their best position last achieved in February 2006. This notable rise was driven by two recent strong performances - a 1-1 draw with Cape Verde in a friendly in May and a convincing 4-0 win over Vietnam in last month's 2027 Asian Cup qualifying campaign. Among Southeast Asian nations, Thailand still lead the regional pack at 102nd in the world, followed by Vietnam (113th) and Indonesia (118th). Meanwhile, FAM Marketing and Sponsorship Committee deputy chairman CP Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri expressed appreciation for the commitment of Bank Islam, which has been with them since 2013. "The close cooperation that has been forged not only strengthens efforts to develop football in the country, but also inspires us to continue to strive harder in developing an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem,' he said. Mizan, meanwhile, is grateful that Bank Islam has been given the trust to directly contribute to the development of football in the country through the extension of the collaborative agreement for another two years. - BERNAMA
Sinar Daily
22-06-2025
- Sport
- Sinar Daily
Facing stronger opponents key to Harimau Malaya's growth
Harimau Malaya must challenge higher-ranked teams to soar The national team is hoped to face higher-ranked opponents in future friendly matches. Photo: Facebook SHAH ALAM – National football legend Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan believes Harimau Malaya must continue playing friendly matches against higher-ranked teams to elevate their quality of play and build match maturity. He stressed that facing more challenging opponents gives Malaysian players vital exposure and rhythm. The national team is hoped to face higher-ranked opponents in future friendly matches. Photo: Facebook Referring to the May 29 friendly against Cape Verde, Zainal said the match, which ended in a draw, was a turning point that helped the team strengthen their game and address weaknesses. 'For me, it was a good start when we played against Cape Verde. I was there at the stadium and I saw a high-quality level of football and this had some impact when we played against Vietnam,' he said. Although Harimau Malaya lost the second match against Cape Verde behind closed doors, Zainal believes the lessons learned were crucial, as evidenced by their dominant win against Vietnam in the World Cup Qualifier at Bukit Jalil just days later. 'So with more matches like these, because I have lived through those eras where I played against the best teams. Even though we lost three or four times, that is where we learned and improved,' he said. Zainal also encouraged the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to plan more friendlies against top-tier teams to give Harimau Malaya high-quality exposure. 'With the national team now at a certain level that we can be proud of, I think we need to look forward to playing against teams like Korea, Japan or teams from the Middle East. 'That is where we will push forward to reach the level we aspire to. The journey is still long, so this is the beginning and we must keep moving forward," he added.
