KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- I am very concerned with reports on the development of an oil palm plantation in the vicinity of the Mulu National Park, Sarawak. This is a World Heritage site and the development is being disputed by the indigenous people.
 
I have contacted Deputy Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas to express my concern and I am monitoring this issue very closely in my capacity as the Minister of Primary Industries.
 
As land is a state matter, I am counting on the state government to take the appropriate measures to resolve the matter in the interest of the state, the indigenous people and our national sustainability agenda.
 
I will be presenting a paper on “Sustainability of Oil Palm Cultivation in Malaysia” at the 133rd Meeting of Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers on 26th February 2019. This will also address the country’s current policy relating to the expansion of oil palm plantations with a view that recommendations could be adopted nationwide by the state authorities.
 
The Ministry of Primary Industries will continue to engage with all state governments and agencies to collectively formulate through a consultative process, national policies that promote the sustainability of our oil palm cultivation, the preservation of our natural forests and wildlife conservation.
 
These measures are also extremely important to help the nation and the palm oil industry address and overcome the intense anti-palm oil campaign that currently threatens our key Western hemisphere markets and the livelihood of our small holders.
 
TERESA KOK
Minister of Primary Industries
 
SOURCE: Ministry of Primary Industries Malaysia

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Mohd Hilmi Bin Mohd Ali
Tel: 03-8880 3325
Fax: 03-8887 8205
Email: hilmihajiali@mpi.gov.my
 
--BERNAMA