Sabah will receive full environmental management powers under MA63 in November, starting with scheduled waste, as part of a major devolution deal.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is set to receive full environmental management powers from the federal government in November.
The devolution of authority is part of the ongoing implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
State Governor Tun Musa Aman announced the timeline when delivering the state government’s policy speech. The transition will begin with the management of scheduled waste.
The move will be supported by the drafting of new state laws and guidelines. It also includes developing a web-based management system and a technical competency programme for officers and industry players.
In carbon governance, the state aims to be a national leader in implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. It plans to leverage voluntary carbon markets as a new funding source for forest and environmental conservation.
On land governance, the state government will table an amendment bill to the Land (Subsidiary Title) Enactment 1972 this year. This involves drafting two new enactments for subsidiary titles and building management.
The new laws aim to increase efficiency in issuing subsidiary titles and managing building maintenance. A Forest Landscape Restoration approach will also be implemented across agricultural and community lands.
This approach seeks to restore ecological functions and improve local communities’ socio-economic well-being. Under the 13th Malaysia Plan, the state will intensify forest conservation and protection efforts.
Initiatives include expanding Totally Protected Areas through Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures. The state is also implementing the Sabah Timber Legality Assurance System Plus.
“We will continue to strengthen forest and climate governance and promote community development and green innovation,” Musa said. The state will also utilise satellite technology and Earth Observation systems for monitoring.
