Dato' Dr Freezailah B. CheYeom
Malaysian Timber Certification Council
19 F, Level 19, Menara PGRM
No.8, Jalan Pudu Ulu, Cheras
56100 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia

Y.B. Datuk Peter Chin Fah Kui
Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities
6-13th Floor, Lot 2, G4, Precint 2
Federal Government Administration Center
62654 Putrajaya
Malaysia

RE: MTCC certification

Dear Sirs:

I have great concern regarding the Malaysian Timber Certification Council's (MTCC) certification of the Samling Plywood company for management of the Sela'an-Linau Forest.

I very much appreciate Malaysia’s commitment to certify sustainably managed forests and forest products. However, according to independent reports, MTCC’s certification does not guarantee that all timber products are harvested legally, sustainably, and with respect for the rights and lands of indigenous peoples. As currently practiced, we strongly feel that MTCC certification should not be recognized on the world market.

I support the Penan people and Sarawak NGOs who are protesting the certification awarded to Samling for the Sela’an-Linau Forest Mangement Unit. Since the Penan claim Native Customary Rights in the Sela’an-Linau Forest, all logging must be halted while their court case is pending.

I urge MTCC to adopt the Forest Stewardship Council’s policy of respecting indigenous peoples' land rights.

I will join millions of people in your nation and around the world in closely following your actions in this important matter.

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