Sarawak passes Forests Bill, ups penalties to RM1mil fine and 10 years' jail

Illegal logging can be seen along the mountain ranges that surround the Batang Ai Dam reservoir. FILE PIC.

KUCHING: Timber thieves will face heftier fines and jail terms when a new Forests Ordinance comes into force in Sarawak.

Among others, the illegal export of logs under the Forests Bill 2015 is punishable by a fine of RM100,000 to RM500,000 and up to five years' imprisonment, or a fine of up to RM1mil and 10 years' jail for subsequent offences.