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Needpix.com future direction as a credible, sustainable and internationally
“This 40th anniversary reflects FRIM’s legacy and its

recognised institution,” he told the press.
He noted that the institute— formerly known as the Forest

Research Institute (FRI) established in 1926 and renamed FRIM
on Oct 1, 1985—has received various accolades and awards
in recognition of its contributions to research, development,
commercialisation and innovation.

AI tool contributes to forest assessment
Reappointed chairman for Malaysian Timber Council Telekom Research & Development (TM R&D), a subsidiary
Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) of The Multimedia University (MMU) was recognised at the
General Manager, Zainal Abidin Abdullah, has been reappointed Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards 2025 in the AI—

as Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) chairman for 2025/27. Environmental Services category.
This will be his second term as the Council’s chairman, This recognition celebrates a breakthrough in Smart Forestry
according to a press release. In response to the appointment AI Tools Enhancement which contributes to forestry assessments
Zainal Abidin expressed optimism about the future of the and advances biodiversity conservation in Malaysia.
timber and wood industry emphasising a renewed focus on The AI-powered solution, launched in 2024, utilises a
strategic leadership to drive sustainable growth and innovation. mobile app that captures tree images and calculates tree
“My expectation is to work closely with all stakeholders diameters (DBH) without the need for additional equipment

to enhance industry standards, promote responsible forest or reference objects.
management and expand market access both domestically This innovation significantly reduces the time taken for
and internationally,” he said. data collection.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration across
the value chain to increase competitiveness and ensure that INDONESIA
the industry contributes significantly to the economy while Furniture manufacturers request review of new
maintaining environmental and social responsibilities. quarantine rules
The Indonesian Furniture and Craft Industry Association (Himki)
FRIM committed to spearheading tropical forestry has called on the government to delay the implementation

research and innovation of a new policy from the Indonesian Quarantine Agency as
As it approaches its 40th anniversary this October, the Forest it could negatively affect the export of furniture and craft
Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) remains committed to industry products.
spearheading tropical forestry research and innovation based Himki Chairman, Abdul Sobur, expressed concern that the
on natural resources. new regulation introduces complicated procedures and risk
FRIM Director-General, Datuk Dr Ismail Parlan, said this export delays. He believes these issues could undermine the
year’s anniversary is not only a celebration of past achievements competitiveness of Indonesian products in the global market.

but also a symbol of FRIM’s resolve to move forward with a Sobur stated "ironically, this regulation contradicts the
global vision and aspirations for environmental sustainability. national initiative to boost creative industry exports. We question