KUCHING: Sarawak's forest replanting policy will be boosted by the introduction of fast-growing tree species like RevoTropix (RT)-Paulownia, says Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.

       The Chief Minister said RT-Paulownia, a locally-bred variant of the Paulownia or empress tree, could be harvested three years after planting.

       "We have a policy of replanting our degraded forest areas. For planted forests, a fast-growing species like this is suitable.

       "This tree has been proven to grow well in our soil," he said after opening an RT-Paulownia tissue culture laboratory by local company TSG Green Sdn Bhd here on Thursday (Nov 18).

       Abang Johari said the tree had other benefits, including carbon absorption and product potential.

       "The tree has wide leaves which are able to absorb more carbon dioxide, which will help our efforts to control carbon emission.

       "As a fast-growing species, it will be a sustainable source of raw material for timber products like furniture, while the leaves can be turned into animal feed or organic fertiliser," he said.

       He congratulated TSG Green for exploring new technology to contribute to the state's replanting efforts.

       TSG Green chief executive Datuk Chris Chung said the company hoped to contribute to the state government's initiative of planting 35 million trees by 2025.