“Synthetic timber”, or engineered wood, is gaining recognition as a credible alternative to traditional building materials, that is according to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who this week highlighted its limitless potential to make timber fibre “go further.”
Addressing the International Conference on Forest Plantation Research and Innovation (ICFPRI) 2025, Abang Johari said synthetic timber is a combination of timber fibre and other chemical products: “Although it also needs a bit of carbon, the degree of production of carbon can be mitigated,” he added, before revealing that engineered timber, when combined with fibre, “can reduce reliance on natural forest resources while still meeting construction demands.”
His remarks echo a growing global consensus. A recent study by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) found that replacing steel and concrete with timber could cut construction emissions by up to 50 per cent. Whilst the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research has similarly reported that buildings made from engineered wood can act as carbon sinks, storing CO₂ absorbed by trees while avoiding emissions from cement and steel production.
The Premier’s comments come as Sarawak expands its forest plantation research and innovation agenda. A key part of the ICFPRI 2025 conference, in Kuching, Malaysia, brought together policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders to explore new technologies in forestry and sustainable construction.
Abang Johari has repeatedly stressed the importance of innovation in Sarawak’s industrial strategy, linking synthetic timber to the state’s long‑term goals of reducing emissions and diversifying its economy.
“Synthetic timber, or engineered wood, combined with fibre can be used as an alternative building material for construction purposes,” he said, reaffirming his confidence in the material’s potential to bridge the gap between development needs and environmental stewardship.
- To learn more about Sarawak and Malaysia’s plans to gain a greater slice of the mass timber market – including cross-laminated timber – click here for Wood Central’s special feature from June 2023.
