TOKYO – Sarawak has strengthened its international collaboration in environmental science with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Sarawak Government, represented by the Forest Department, and Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan.
The ceremony, held on 10 November, was witnessed by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.
The agreement builds on Sarawak’s existing partnership with Japan’s National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), formalised in 2023.
The latest MoU outlines cooperation in utilising the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) to measure and monitor emissions through Net Ecosystem Exchange (NEE).
This technology will provide Sarawak with scientifically credible and independent data streams, enhancing transparency in its reporting for the Voluntary Carbon Market.
Officials emphasised that the collaboration will not only support carbon monitoring but also extend to joint research on forest ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and the publication of scientific findings.
These efforts are expected to strengthen Sarawak’s position in global climate initiatives while advancing its own sustainability agenda.
The exchange of documents was conducted between the Director of Forests Sarawak and Prof. Dr. Yayoi Takeuchi, representing Osaka Metropolitan University.
The Premier underscored the importance of such partnerships in ensuring Sarawak’s environmental policies are backed by robust scientific evidence.
As part of the programme, the Sarawak delegation will travel to Osaka, where the Director of Forests has been invited to deliver a lecture on 12 November.
The lecture, titled “Strengthening Forest Management Through Research, Monitoring and Innovation in Sarawak”, will highlight the state’s strategies in balancing conservation with development.
This latest agreement reflects Sarawak’s broader ambition to integrate advanced research and technology into its forest management practices.
By leveraging satellite data and international expertise, the state aims to enhance its credibility in carbon reporting and contribute to global climate action.
The partnership also signals Sarawak’s commitment to knowledge exchange and capacity building, ensuring that future generations benefit from sustainable forest management and biodiversity protection.
