Malaysian Rain Forests
We take strong exception to the thrust of “Malaysia’s Native People Feeling Bite of Logger’s Ax” (March 19). The article is misleading and over-dramatic, and does not give a fair assessment of the role of the timber industry in the Sarawak forest or in any other tropical forest.
It is important to recognize that native groups in all regions of the world are in time exposed to advanced civilization, and it is an obligation of society to make available to those groups the benefits of a higher standard of living. The Penan natives of East Malaysia are very small in number, and it is unreasonable to assume that they would not be exposed to the outreaches of a more modern society whether or not timber harvesting takes place. It is also unfair to downplay the economic benefits.
On behalf of the International Hardwood Products Assn., we object to this misleading slant directed at our industry. Rather, we have taken the initiative to promote good forestry practice and have assumed a worldwide leadership position to ensure the ongoing preservation of tropical forest regions wherever they exist.
O. KEISTER EVANS
Legislative Liaison
International Hardwood Products Assn.
Alexandria, Va.
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