PETALING JAYA: The annual allowable cut (AAC) in permanent reserved forests (PRF) has been reduced to 890,000ha under the 13th Malaysian Plan to further protect the forests. Down from 1,165,300ha in the previous plan, the move reflects Malaysia’s commitment to balancing economic needs with forest conservation. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup (pic) said the reduction of AAC would positively impact forest conservation, sustainable forest management practices, as well as the country’s economic and social needs. Kurup highlighted that the forestry and agriculture sector contributed over RM6bil to last year’s gross domestic product, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable forest harvesting. Kurup also revealed that the Forest Research Institute Malaysia was also guiding rural communities on environmental conservation through training programmes and technical support.

Source: The Star March 23, 2026 09:59 UTC