Introduction
Background
The tropical rain forest is one of the most complex ecosystems in the world.
It is a unique natural heritage which has evolved over millions of years and is
the home for numerous plant and animal species. It helps to conserve wildlife,
genetic resources and provide natural eco-habitats for both flora and fauna. The
forest provides food and shelter for a great variety of mammals, reptiles,
amphibians, fishes, birds and insects, many of which are indigenous only in this
part of the world.
The forests play a major role in the regulation of the climatic and physical
conditions of the country, safeguarding water supplies, ensuring environmental
stability and minimising damage to agricultural lands.
The tropical rain forest of Malaysia is comprised of primarily the
species-rich lowland and hill dipterocarp forests. The dipterocarp forests are
of vital ecological and economic importance to the country. The other forest
types found are the mangrove and peat swamp forests, montane oak forests and
montane ericaceous forests. Apart from economically important in producing poles
and charcoal, the mangrove forests situated in the coastal areas also play a
vital role in the protection and conservation of the natural coastal ecosystem,
fishery and other marine life. The peat swamp forests found in the inland swampy
regions yield several species of high quality timber.
As a renewable resource, the tropical rain forest continues to provide vital
socio-economic returns and should be conserved in order to ensure maximum and
continued benefits.
Administration
In accordance with the Federal Constitution, forestry is a state matter and
the State Governments have complete jurisdiction over their respective forest
resources. The Federal Government provides technical advice on forest management
and development, undertakes research and education, and promotes industrial
development of wood-based industries and trade.
In this context, a close relationship between the State and Federal
Governments is essential regarding all matters concerning forestry. The National
Forestry Council (NFC) facilitates the adoption of a coordinated and common
approach to forestry that includes planned, rational and effective management
and utilisation of the forest resources, consistent with the need to maintain
the forest as a long term renewable resource.
Forestry Legislation And Policy
The Forest Enactment and Rules for administering the forests were enacted by
the Federated and Undefeated Malay States in the early thirties and were
replaced by the National Forestry Act in 1984.
The Interim Forestry Policy, first formulated in 1952, was officially adopted
as the National Forestry Policy in 1978 and revised in 1993.
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MTC’s
