Forest reserve degazettement subject to conditions, procedures, says Pahang MB

Pahang’s Menteri Besar, Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, has clarified that degazetting permanent forest reserves within the state is not undertaken arbitrarily. Rather, it is subject to strict controls, specific conditions, and prescribed procedures. The decision not to hold a public inquiry prior to the degazettement of these reserves stems from Pahang's perspective of land and forests as a state matter, and thus, a responsibility that should be managed by the state government.

This approach is not unique to Pahang, as several other states have also adopted the same stance. Wan Rosdy emphasized that such a move aligns with their belief that land and forests should be under state jurisdiction. Addressing the lack of public inquiry before the degazettement, he stated that Pahang has implemented certain conditions, and so far, the process has been going well.

He made these remarks after attending the Makmur Pahang Initiative Handover Ceremony. Wan Rosdy also hinted at a new initiative—an interest-free loan scheme for motorcycle purchases intended for youths aged 18 to 21 who are pursuing studies at public and private higher education institutions. This initiative is planned to be included in the 2027 Pahang budget during the upcoming state legislative assembly sitting.