Forest Plantation In Malaysia
Forest Plantation in Malaysia
Forest Plantation In Malaysia
Preserving Forests for Future Generations
Malaysia safeguards its forests through protected areas such as Permanent Reserved Forests (PRF) and Virgin Jungle Reserves (VJR). These areas are legally designated to balance timber production, ecological conservation, and research. Covering millions of hectares, PRFs focus on sustainable management, while VJRs serve as untouched reserves for biodiversity research and habitat protection.
Growing Timber for Tomorrow
Forest plantations play a crucial and strategic role in Malaysia’s long-term efforts to ensure a sustainable and consistent supply of timber, while at the same time alleviating pressure on natural forest reserves for the future generations.
Key Milestones
Details
Forest plantation target
130,000 hectares by 2020
Implementation started
2005
Area developed (as of Sept 2016)
112,008 hectares
Government loan (2007–2020)
RM1 billion (US$233 million)
Projected timber yield (per 25,000 ha)
5 million m³ of timber
Growing Timber for Tomorrow
Forest plantations play a crucial and strategic role in Malaysia’s long-term efforts to ensure a sustainable and consistent supply of timber, while at the same time alleviating pressure on natural forest reserves for the future generations.
In 2003, the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) submitted a landmark study to the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK), setting the stage for the development of large-scale forest plantations across Malaysia. This study served as the blueprint for a national strategy aimed at creating a sustainable timber supply while supporting economic growth and reducing dependency on natural forests.
Goal
Establish 130,000 hectares of forest plantations by 2020.
Plan
Plant 25,000 hectares annually from 2005 over 15 years.
Will Malaysia Change its Forest Policies if Global Demand for Tropical Timber Rises?
While no one can predict future policy changes, Malaysia’s long-standing commitment to sustainable forest management makes it unlikely that current practices will be reversed. As a parliamentary democracy, Malaysia’s forestry direction is guided by public mandate and international responsibility.
Malaysia has already built a strong foundation of laws, policies, and certification schemes developed over decades — balancing environmental protection with timber industry needs.
Fast-Growing Species for a Greener Future
Malaysia’s forest plantation programme prioritises fast-growing, high-yield tree species that are well-suited to the country’s tropical climate and soil. These species are selected to support a sustainable and reliable timber supply, helping reduce pressure on natural forests while meeting the growing demands of the timber industry.
Main Species
- Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis)
- Acacia (Acacia mangium)
- Eucalyptus hybrids
Additional Species
• Teak (Tectona grandis)
• Sentang (Azadirachta excelsa)
• Khaya (Khaya ivorensis / Khaya senegalensis)
• Laran (Neolamarckia cadamba)
• Batai (Paraserianthes falcataria)
• Binuang (Octomeles sumatrana)
Main Species
- Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis)
- Acacia (Acacia mangium)
- Eucalyptus hybrids
Additional Species
- Teak (Tectona grandis)
- Sentang (Azadirachta excelsa)
- Khaya (Khaya ivorensis / Khaya senegalensis)
- Laran (Neolamarckia cadamba)
- Batai (Paraserianthes falcataria)
- Binuang (Octomeles sumatrana)
The Impact of Forest Plantations
Forest plantations are essential to building a resilient, sustainable timber supply chain in Malaysia. By providing a reliable and renewable source of raw materials, these plantations help reduce dependence on natural forests while supporting the long-term growth of the country’s wood-based industries.
As more plantation areas reach maturity, they contribute significantly to the production needs of:
- Indoor and outdoor furniture manufacturers
- Mouldings, flooring, and panel producers
- Door and joinery product manufacturers
- Downstream woodworking mills and exporters
Fast-Growing Species for a Greener Future
Malaysia’s forest plantation programme prioritises fast-growing, high-yield tree species that are well-suited to the country’s tropical climate and soil. These species are selected to support a sustainable and reliable timber supply, helping reduce pressure on natural forests while meeting the growing demands of the timber industry.
Main Species
- Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis)
- Acacia (Acacia mangium)
- Eucalyptus hybrids
Additional Species
- Teak (Tectona grandis)
- Sentang (Azadirachta excelsa)
- Khaya (Khaya ivorensis / Khaya senegalensis)
- Laran (Neolamarckia cadamba)
- Batai (Paraserianthes falcataria)
- Binuang (Octomeles sumatrana)
A Sustainable Future
Through smart forest management and consistent plantation efforts, Malaysia is paving the way for a future where timber production and forest conservation go hand in hand. By growing timber sustainably, the country ensures long-term benefits for both people and the planet, supporting:
Environmental conservation
Rural economic development
A strong, green timber industry
How Malaysia is Preparing for Growing Global Demand
To meet rising global demand without overexploiting natural forests, Malaysia is expanding its focus on forest plantations:
Peninsular Malaysia:
Department of Forestry Peninsular Malaysia(JPSM) aims to develop 50,000 hectares of forest plantations by 2025.
Forest Plantation Development Programme (PPLH) targets 130,000 hectares of timber plantations in 15-year harvest cycles.
Sabah:
Aims to develop 400,000 hectares of forest plantations by 2036.
Sarawak:
Plans to establish 1 million hectares of plantation forests by 2025.
Protecting Nature’s Treasures
Strong Policies for a Sustainable Future
Empowering Communities to Protect Forests
Protecting Nature’s Treasures
Malaysia’s forests are home to endangered species like the Malayan Tiger, Orangutan, and Hornbill. Conservation efforts focus on protecting critical habitats, such as highland forests, wetlands, and wildlife corridors. Virgin Jungle Reserves and wildlife sanctuaries like the Danum Valley and Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary ensure these species thrive in their natural habitats.
Empowering Communities to Protect Forests
Local and indigenous communities are vital partners in conservation. Their involvement begins with consultations to address potential impacts of forestry activities. Communities are engaged in managing non-timber forest products like rattan and bamboo and play a role in reporting illegal activities. This collaboration ensures conservation efforts are socially inclusive and sustainable.
Strong Policies for a Sustainable Future
Conservation in Malaysia is upheld through comprehensive laws such as the National Forestry Act 1984, Protection of Wildlife Act 1972, and Environmental Quality Act 1974. These laws protect habitats, regulate sustainable practices, and ensure enforcement against illegal activities. Conservation policies are reinforced through periodic updates to address evolving challenges.
