On December 18, I had the privilege of engaging in an insightful and productive informal working dinner with prominent leaders from Malaysia’s timber industry representing all three regions of the country. This meeting was a testament to the dedication and collaboration within the sector, as we discussed ongoing efforts and future strategies in sustainable timber production and trade.
A key highlight of the discussion was the remarkable initiative spearheaded by the Malaysia Timber Association (MTA) in partnership with the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) to establish the Coalition on Sustainable Timber. This international coalition unites forestry and timber industry associations from nine timber-producing countries—Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Ghana, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Paraguay, and Peru. The coalition was formed in December 2023 as a direct response to the European Union’s Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR).
The Coalition's primary mission is to advocate for fair and proportionate implementation of the EUDR, recognizing that collective efforts amplify impact.
Malaysia was honoured to be elected as the inaugural Chair of the Coalition during its first meeting in December 2023, underscoring our leadership in championing sustainable timber practices.
Since its inception, the Coalition has made significant progress, holding six meetings to date. Among its achievements, it issued a comprehensive Position Paper in February 2024, outlining shared concerns about EUDR implementation. This document was circulated to various EU institutions to ensure the voices of timber-producing nations are heard. Additionally, a high-level delegation, led by the Coalition Chair, undertook a successful mission to Brussels from May 27 to June 1,
2024.
At its Sixth Meeting on December 17, 2024, the Coalition members unanimously re-elected Malaysia as Chair for another term, a decision that reflects their confidence in our continued leadership. This re-election is particularly significant as we navigate the extended timeline for EUDR implementation, now delayed until December 2025.
I am confident that the MTA, together with the Coalition, will remain steadfast in its role as a robust platform to advocate for the interests of timber-producing countries while promoting sustainable practices. I commend MTA for its outstanding efforts and the international recognition it has garnered for Malaysia.
This journey of leadership and collaboration would not have been possible without the unwavering support and commitment of key industry figures who attended the dinner. Among them were Mr. George Yap, President of MTA; Mr. Ng Kay Yip, President of the Malaysian Wood Industries Association (MWIA); Mr. Chua Song Fong, President of the Timber Exporters’ Association of Malaysia (TEAM); Mr. Rahman Khan, Deputy President of the Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA); Ms. Annie Ting, CEO of the Sarawak Timber Association (STA); and Mr. Yong Teng Koon, Advisory Consultant for MTA and Chairman of the Coalition for Sustainable Timber.
As we move forward, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to MTA for its leadership and achievements. Together, let us continue to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a global advocate for sustainable timber production while championing the rights and contributions of timber-producing nations on the international stage.