Harsher penalties when National Forestry Act amended

 

Those convicted of committing an offence in permanent forest reserves will face heavier penalties when the National Forestry Act (Amendment) 2022 is passed.

The amendment to the Bill was tabled for first reading by the Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Ali Biju in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.

The amendments were to ensure similarity of laws for states in relation to administration, management and conservation of forests, and forestry development.

Among the offences that merit heavier punishments are illegal possession of forest produce, rubbish burning, and dumping.

According to the blue bill circulated in Parliament, for offences under section 84(1), the penalty for illegal possession of forest produce is increased to a maximum of RM200,000.

Imprisonment is increased from a maximum of five years to 10 years, if convicted.

Section 82 was also amended, which is the prohibition to fire such as to kindle, keep or carry any fire, or leave any fire burning in any manner as to endanger the forest reserve.

Those found guilty may be fined not exceeding RM100,000 compared to RM50,000 previously, imprisoned for a maximum of seven years compared to five years previously, or both.

The amendment also involves Section 83, which is the dumping of rubbish in permanent forest reserves, where offenders can be fined up to RM20,000, which is double the previous fine, or imprisoned for up to three years, or both.

The second reading is set to take place during the current parliamentary sitting.

- Bernama