KUCHING: Any proposal to ban commercial timber harvesting as part of conservation efforts is "unrealistic", says Sarawak Timber Association (STA) chairman Datuk Henry Lau.
"A balanced understanding of the timber industry is essential as the solution to the problem lies in recognising responsible practices and the promotion of sustainable forest management," he told delegates at the International Conference on Sustainable Management of Tropical Forests here.
This would ensure a more sustainable future for both the timber sector and the environment, he said.
Lau said STA is committed to promoting sustainable practices and responsible resource management.
"(We are) often painted as being solely driven by economic motives and accused of neglecting broader concerns."
Lau said the association's members have received the Malaysian Timber Certification for 24 forest management units and seven forest plantation management units covering 2.16 million hectares.
The certification is given for compliance with sustainable and responsible forest management practices.
Certification can enhance market access, improve the reputation of forestry operations, and contribute to the overall conservation of global forests.
Lau said one challenge STA members faced was ensuring compliance with the different timber regulations in export countries.
He said inconsistent definitions, regulations, and requirements of these countries made trade and international cooperation with other stakeholders difficult.
"This complex regulatory landscape, compounded by the need for additional resources and capacity building, significantly amplifies the cost burden on timber-producing countries.
"These challenges, while paramount, are just a fraction of the complexities facing
the timber industry in the global arena."