East Java bans logging

East Java bans logging

MALANG, East Java: All government institutions, including
state forestry company Perhutani, should observe a five-to-10-
year moratorium on logging, while intensifying their
reforestation activities, East Java Governor Imam Utomo said on
Thursday.

He said institutions should not pay mere "lip service" to the
moratorium and urged the public to monitor the implementation of
the reforestation program.

The governor promised a monthly allowance of Rp 150,000
(US$17.8) to all those who planted trees, took care of them for
several years and monitored three to four hectares of forest in
their region.

Regarding cases of illegal logging in the Cangar forest in
Malang, Imam said his administration would seek the approval of
the province's legislative council to close the area and increase
the number of forest guards.

He expressed concern over the construction of some buildings
at the foot of Cangar hill. -- JP