Latest news with #STIA
Daily Express
11-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Sabah Timber Industries Association urges government to up timber planting
Published on: Friday, July 11, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jul 11, 2025 By: Hayati Dzulkifli Text Size: Tan said robust support mechanisms are needed to create a conducive environment for ITP development, and providing crucial incentives to encourage investments that secure Sabah's timber industry for the long term. Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA) has called on the State government to reinforce policies and introduce incentives to accelerate development of Industrial Tree Plantations (ITP), which falls short of 400,000-hectare target. STIA President Tan Peng Juan said ITP has critical role in securing a sustainable raw material base for Sabah's timber sector. He said STIA has raised its concern on the slow progress of ITP initiatives in the State while recognising ITP as a crucial pillar of Sabah's long-term strategy to ensure a reliable and renewable timber resource base. He added establishment of ITP is aimed at creating a reliable and renewable timber resource based that help reduce pressure on natural forests while supporting long-term growth of domestic timber manufacturing and value-added downstream industries. 'Based on the Sabah Forestry Department's latest annual report, it recorded that majority of plantation logs harvested in Sabah are derived from other agencies and smallholders, rather than from the designated ITP areas within the Sustainable Forest Management Licence Agreement (SFMLA). 'As of 2024, a total of 183,634 hectares of ITP areas have been established statewide. While this marks significant progress, it still falls short of the 400,000-hectare target set under the Forest Plantation Development Action Plan. 'This gap underscores the urgency to intensify plantation efforts over the coming years,' Tan said this during the STIA's Annual General Meeting (AGM), here, recently. The AGM, presided by Tan, discussed various issues particularly on current market situation, technical requirements faced by the industry and mitigation of compliance. Tan said equally important is ensuring that downstream players are adequately equipped with the appropriate machinery and processing capabilities to handle the unique characteristics of plantation-grown logs, which differ in characteristics from natural forest timber. To achieve this, he said there is an urgent need for stronger support mechanisms that can incentivise the local utilisation of plantation timber. He reiterated the STIA's call on the State Government to fully support ITP initiatives by reinforcing existing policies and to incentivise companies actively developing ITP areas as well as manufacturers using plantation timber. Tan said robust support mechanisms are needed to create a conducive environment for ITP development, and providing crucial incentives to encourage investments that secure Sabah's timber industry for the long term. He said the AGM resolved to formally reiterate these points to the State Government, seeking its full commitment and support to drive the success of industrial tree planting in Sabah. He also assured that STIA will work with the government to ensure the Forest Plantation Action Plan policy is successful as resources derived from ITP is not only as supplementary resource for downstream processing but as alternative to tropical timber in the long run. 'The industry should not depend on topical timber as the global market is moving towards sustainable green resources,' he said. Tan also addressed industry concerns over low-grade plywood imports, warning it could undermine local manufacturers or domestic producers. To tackle this, he said STIA is working with the Forest Research Centre to fast-track the establishment of a laboratory for formaldehyde testing as one of the control measures to regulate importation of timber products. 'STIA agreed to pursue the issue via regulatory provisions through formaldehyde emission controls. 'This measure aims to ensure that all plywood entering the local market meets minimum health and safety standards,' he said. On another issue, Tan said STIA also pledged to continue monitoring global moves to list Shorea species under CITES Appendix II, which could significantly impact Malaysia's timber trade and export regulations. 'The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) recently confirmed no formal proposal currently exists to list Shorea under CITES but said it would keep abreast of developments. 'Both the Ministry and relevant regulatory agencies including timber trade associations will continue to closely follow developments at the global level to ensure that Malaysia's timber industry interests are safeguarded and any future policy shifts are addressed proactively,' he said. Meanwhile, Tan said Sabah Timber Legality Assurance is under review to ensure compliance with new European Union (EU) regulations, particularly the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). 'A revised draft was presented in April 2025 and further discussions with stakeholders were held to incorporate feedback into the review process. 'STIA also recently took part in a Malaysian Timber Council (MTC)- EUDR Mission to Brussels from 17–24 May 2025 which included high-level engagements with EU officials on EUDR implementation, potential impacts of the Shorea listing and other matters affecting Malaysian timber exports,' he said. Another ongoing issue of concern, Tan said is the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (MPC) move to initiate a proposal to harmonize TLAS frameworks across Malaysia. 'The move is aimed at developing a national TLAS framework. STIA however, emphasized that state-level systems must be preserved due to varying forestry practices and governance structures. On employment matters, Tan said members have been informed about the new Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) policy under which all written employment contracts signed from 1 January 2025 are subject to RM10 stamp duty. While late-stamping penalties will be waived for employment contracts finalized by 31 December 2025, he said STIA noted that the current online system has yet to reflect this waiver and continues to generate automatic penalty charges. To address this discrepancy, Tan said STIA is working closely with the Sabah Employers Association (SEA) to seek clarification and resolution with the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN). 'STIA will continue to play an active role in labour policy deliberations as a member of the Sabah Labour Advisory Council (SLAC); the official tripartite consultative body established under the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Cap. 67) to facilitate dialogue between employers, employees and the government. 'Through its representation in the council STIA serves as a key industry voice, contributing inputs on proposed amendments to labour regulations that impact the timber sector in Sabah,' he said. At a separate occasion, Tan Peng Juan was elected as the President of Malaysian Timber Association (MTA) for the 2025–2027 term during the MTA Annual General Meeting held on 30 June 2025. Its new office bearers are Farosham Naizamohideen from Persatuan Pengusaha Kayu Kayan dan Perabot Bumiputera Malaysia (PEKA) as the Vice-President, followed by Honorary Secretary Ng Kay Yip from Malaysian Wood Industries Association (MWIA) and Honorary Treasurer Annie Ting Yien Ding from Sarawak Timber Association (STA). Tan said MTA is the unified voice of Malaysia's timber industry at the federal, state and international levels as it represents major regional timber associations and serves as a central platform for industry collaboration. 'MTA actively engages with government bodies to shape legislation and regulations that benefit the timber sector. 'It also provides members with insights on market trends, trade opportunities, environmental sustainability, reforestation and technological innovation. 'To ensure the industry's interests are represented in national policymaking, MTA nominates industry experts to serve on various boards and committees,' he said while adding that internationally, MTA collaborates with global organizations such as the Coalition on Sustainable Timber to coordinate advocacy efforts globally. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
10-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
STIA urges stronger support for Sabah industrial tree plantations
Published on: Thursday, July 10, 2025 Published on: Thu, Jul 10, 2025 By: Hayati Dzulkifli Text Size: KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA) has called on the State Government to strengthen policies and offer incentives to boost Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP) development, which still falls short of the 400,000-hectare target, standing at 183,634 hectares as of 2024. STIA President Tan Peng Juan said ITPs are critical to ensuring a sustainable timber resource and reducing pressure on natural forests. He urged support for companies developing ITPs and manufacturers using plantation timber, noting the need for appropriate machinery to process plantation-grown logs. He also raised concern over the influx of low-grade imported plywood and said STIA is working with the Forest Research Centre to establish a formaldehyde testing lab to ensure product safety standards. The association also pledged to monitor global efforts to list Shorea species under CITES Appendix II, and to ensure compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), noting recent engagements with EU officials in Brussels. On national policy, STIA emphasized the need to retain Sabah's own TLAS framework amid a federal proposal to harmonize certification systems. Employment contract stamp duty issues were also flagged, with STIA working with SEA to resolve discrepancies in the LHDN's online system. Tan, recently elected President of the Malaysian Timber Association (MTA), said MTA serves as the unified voice for the industry, driving engagement with stakeholders on sustainability, innovation, and global advocacy. * Read full report in tomorrow's print paper or log in or sign up for e-paper and premium online news access. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Zawya
17-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
AI, social media redefining influence in consumer behaviour —Expert
A tech expert and co-founder of TechNovelle, Victoria Ogunsanya, has identified the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and Social media as technologies that have not only redefined communication and commerce, but dramatically reshaped the way people think, behave and decide. Ogunsanya made the observation while delivering a paper at the recent International Seminar of the Yappi Makassar School of Administrative Sciences (STIA) with the Association of Indonesian Social Science Researchers and Teachers (APPISI). At the seminar tagged 'Navigating the Digital Era: The Impact of AI and Social Media on Human Behaviour and Society', the tech expert argued that though operating subtly, the impact of these technologies on politics and consumer markets remains huge. Victoria, while delivering a paper on the expanding role of AI in shaping political engagement and consumer decision-making, added that from micro-targeted political messaging to predictive consumer marketing, AI and social media platforms now wield unparalleled influence over public opinion and decision-making. The TechNovelle boss explored the multifaceted ways in which the technologies intersect with political campaigns and digital marketing, while critically examining their implications for democratic processes, consumer autonomy, and societal well-being. She highlighted how campaigns are now powered by sophisticated AI tools capable of microtargeting voters with personalised messages based on behavioural data, and conducting real-time sentiment analysis to adjust messaging strategies. Victoria, however, noted that despite the benefits, the advent of those technologies is not without its inherent risks, too. 'The use of deepfake technologies, automated disinformation, and algorithmic echo chambers is contributing to voter manipulation, polarisation, and declining trust in democratic institutions. 'We've entered an era where the difference between influence and manipulation is increasingly blurred,' Victoria said. Shifting to the commercial sector, Victoria also shed light on how AI is revolutionising marketing by creating hyper-personalised consumer experiences. Through predictive analytics, she stated, companies can anticipate needs before consumers even express them, driving purchasing behaviour in ways that feel seamless yet often subconscious. She therefore called for multi-stakeholder collaboration among technologists, policymakers, brands, and citizens to ensure that AI and social media serve the public good rather than private or partisan interests. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Borneo Post
24-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
POIC Lahad Datu Port offers support to east coast traders
Gan LAHAD DATU (May 24): The ports at POIC Lahad Datu industrial park here are a ready and convenient alternative to merchants and shippers in the east coast of Sabah. Traders troubled by congestion at the Tawau Port can look to the POIC Lahad Datu Port as their port of choice. 'We are seeking to clear up what we believe to be some gaps (in understanding POIC's port capacity and its commitment to complementing trade) with the port users, including the Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA),' said Datuk Fredian Gan, the Group Chief Executive Officer of POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd. The state-owned company, POIC, develops and operates the POIC Lahad Datu Port, which has dedicated terminals for container cargo, liquid bulk cargo such as crude palm oil, and dry bulk cargo including fertilizers. Users of the Tawau Port, managed by Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd have recently been affected by handling congestion at its container terminal due to equipment breakdown. 'The breakdown and the resulting congestion are unfortunate. In the interim, we (POIC Lahad Datu Port) like to offer ourself as an alternative,' said Gan. The POIC port, situated within the industrial park, has been operational for over a decade. It commenced operations in 2013 with the dry and liquid bulk terminals, followed by the container terminal in 2019. On 29th June 2022, the port was officially declared a public port which opened access to regional and international shipping activities. Investors at POIC Lahad Datu view the port-within-a-park concept as a unique advantage for the efficient movement of goods. 'We have an experienced port crew operating an excellent set of port facilities,' said Gan; alluding to recent handling of super heavy-duty, containerised batteries for the 100MWno Battery Energy Storage System of the Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd. The system, placed at Dam Road, Lahad Datu, is targeted to begin operation this June.
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sabah Ports reaffirms commitment to Tawau Port
KOTA KINABALU (May 23): Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd (SPSB) is addressing recent concerns raised by the Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA) regarding operational challenges at Tawau Port. In line with its commitment to transparency and collaboration, SPSB held a stakeholder engagement session on May 14 in Tawau, attended by representatives from STIA, the Tawau Chinese Chamber of Commerce, the Sabah Shipping Agents Association and the Tawau Forwarding & Lorry Association, alongside officials from the Sabah Ports Authority and SPSB senior management. The session focused on immediate and long-term solutions, including the procurement of two new ship-to-shore gantry cranes, expected to arrive later this year. 'As of 2pm on May 22, one crane has been fully restored and operational, with all safety systems in place. Work on the second crane is ongoing, supported by internal engineers, independent crane specialists, and technical experts from the original manufacturer. Safety and operational sustainability remain our top priorities,' SPSB said in a statement today. SPSB added it had committed to prioritizing 200 STIA containers scheduled for May 24, with interim measures in place, including the use of shipboard cranes if port cranes were unavailable. While SPSB upheld its part of the agreement, the shipment was canceled due to the shipping line omitting Tawau from its schedule — a factor beyond its control. 'We disagree with claims that temporary equipment issues are the sole cause of backlogs, as alternative solutions were discussed and SPSB maintained operational readiness. We encourage STIA members to diversify shipping partners to reduce reliance on a single provider,' said SPSB. As a self-funded port operator, SPSB said it is investing RM70 million in two new quay cranes to enhance Tawau Port's capacity and reliability. 'We remain committed to transparency, stakeholder engagement, and uninterrupted service,' said the company. Its immediate focus is on fully restoring the second crane, ensuring smooth operations with the currently functional crane and maintaining open communication with all stakeholders. 'We will continue providing updates and welcome further engagement with STIA and industry partners,' said SPSB. STIA president Tan Peng Juan said on Thursday that the critical issues affecting Tawau Port remain unresolved to this day, impacting both outbound and inbound cargo and causing severe economic challenges. 'We were given assurances by Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd and the relevant authorities during the stakeholders' dialogue on 14 May 2025. Sabah Ports also assured us, in a letter dated 16 May 2025, that the facility would become operational within three to four days,' he said in a statement. He added that STIA met with Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, who is also Sabah Works Minister, in a meeting last week attended by representatives from Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd, the Sabah Ports Authority, the Sabah Freight Forwarders & Logistics Association and the Sabah Shipping Agents Association. 'During the session, stakeholders were given assurances that crane repairs at Tawau Port would be completed and full operations would resume by 21 May 2025. It was stated that the expert technical team assigned to carry out the crane repairs was making steady progress, with ongoing work focused on restoring the equipment to full operational capacity as soon as possible,' said Tan. 'Unfortunately, to date, the promised restoration has not materialised, and there has been no positive official update on a revised timeline. This continued inaction has further strained industry players and heightened frustrations among exporters, who continue to face costly delays and operational setbacks,' he lamented.
