BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: In Brunei, forests cover approximately 72.1 per cent of the country’s land, placing the nation among those with the highest forest cover in the region.
The commitment to maintain at least 55 per cent as Permanent Forest Reserve under the National Forestry Policy reflects a balanced approach between conservation and economic development.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Datuk Seri Setia Dr Abdul Manaf Metussin lauded the nation’s impressive forest coverage in his message yesterday, in conjunction with International Day of Forests 2026.
The minister added, “The national forestry industry records an average annual output of BND39 million (US$30.5 million), comprising BND27 million from primary processing industries and BND12 million from downstream and value-added wood-based industries. The development of downstream timber industries reflects encouraging progress towards producing more competitive and innovative wood products, while creating employment opportunities in manufacturing, design and marketing.”
“From a trade perspective, timber product exports average BND1.4 million annually, with key markets including Malaysia, the United States and the Republic of Korea," the Minister revealed.
"At the same time, timber product imports reach approximately BND32 million per year, indicating strong potential to strengthen domestic production capacity, expand downstream industries and create more employment opportunities for the local workforce, particularly among youth and micro, small and medium enterprises.”
He mentioned, “Strategic initiatives such as the Brunei Darussalam Wood Products Expo, organised biennially since 2021, and the introduction of the ‘Brunei Wood Product’ logo, continue to strengthen the branding of local timber products. These initiatives provide opportunities for local producers and entrepreneurs to showcase innovation and creativity, while stimulating entrepreneurship and employment along the timber industry value chain.”
“To ensure the sustainability of timber resources, the development of forest plantations and enrichment planting programmes continues to be strengthened," he explained.
"To date, 5,564.62 hectares have been developed as forest plantations, while 16,291 hectares have been planted through enrichment programmes. These efforts are essential to ensure a sustainable timber supply and support the long-term growth of the forestry industry.”
He added, “Forests also contribute significantly to the economy through nature based tourism. On average, forest recreational parks and Ulu Temburong National Park receive approximately 150,576 visitors annually, generating economic activities in tourism services, transportation, hospitality and local small businesses.”
In an increasingly sustainability-driven global economy, the minister stated that forests also represent a strategic asset within the carbon economy.
The Sultanate is exploring forest carbon initiatives as part of the implementation of the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy, including the National Forest Resources Inventory and feasibility studies for forest carbon projects.
The Minister said, “The Greening and Forest Rehabilitation Programme continues to show encouraging progress. To date, 282,621 trees have been planted, representing 56.5 per cent of the national target of 500,000 trees by 2035.
Investments in forest conservation and restoration represent a long-term commitment to strengthening climate resilience and safeguarding the nation’s natural capital.”
He said initiatives are implemented in alignment with the MPRT Strategic Plan 2023-2029, the National Forestry Policy, the National Biodiversity Policy and Strategic Plan of Action 2024-2030, and the Brunei Darussalam National Climate Change Policy, which collectively support the aspirations of Brunei Vision 2035 and the Brunei Economic Blueprint.
According to the World Economic Forum, over USD44 trillion of global economic value, more than half of the world’s gross domestic product depends directly or indirectly on nature, including forests.
This highlights that healthy ecosystems are essential for economic stability. Without sustainable natural resources, both global and national economies would face significant risks.
The minister expressed, “Forests provide essential ecosystem services, including protecting water catchments, regulating floods and erosion, sequestering carbon and conserving biodiversity. These services help reduce economic risks associated with natural disasters and climate change, while supporting the well-being of communities.”
“The theme ‘Forests and Economies’,” said the minister, “reminds us that economic prosperity is closely linked to environmental sustainability. Sustainably managed forests not only reduce climate and economic risks but also support job creation, strengthen local industries and open opportunities in the green economy, innovation and sustainable finance.”
The minister called on the public, “Let us therefore reaffirm our shared commitment to ensure that the forests of Brunei Darussalam continue to serve as a pillar of a sustainable, resilient and high-integrity economy, for the wellbeing of our people and the prosperity of present and future generations.” - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
