KUALA TERENGGANU: ‘We only have 150 enforcement officers to monitor 544,000ha of forest reserve in the state,’ said state Forestry Department director Datuk Ahmad Fadzil Abdul Majid.
The shortage impedes the department’s efforts to be an effective enforcement agency to curb “timber pirates” from profiteering.
“The vast forest reserves with undulating topography adds to our woes to prevent illegal logging activities by syndicates.
“There are many entry points to these forest reserves, including via Felda and Felcra schemes, as well as land owned by local residents.
“Thus, we have our hands full, despite carrying out numerous enforcement raids,” said Fadzil, adding that the state and country were losing millions of ringgit from the unscrupulous activities of the culprits.
He warned that if more punitive action was not taken against the syndicates, which were blatantly operating in the past 10 years, there would be heavier losses.
“Owing to the staff shortage, when we carry out an inspection at one location, the syndicates will mobilise their teams to other locations.
“Our task is made all the more difficult with lack of logistics, vehicles and technical know-how in managing satellites and drones.”
The state government has agreed to ease the staff shortage by approving 120 personnel, including the hiring of 30 forest supervisors.