The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) is fully aware of the reports titled “Tainted Timber: Malaysian Certification Failures and UK Imports,” commissioned and published by Friends of the Earth England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FOE EWNI), and “The Trouble with Timber: Scrutinizing the Effectiveness of Sustainable Certification in Peninsular Malaysia,” published by Rimba Watch Sdn. Bhd. on FOE EWNI’s commission, funded by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery, United Kingdom as stated in the Tainted Timber report.

MTCC responded formally to FOE EWNI through their right-of-reply process on 13 March 2026, prior to the publication of the abovementioned reports, to address inaccuracies and provide needful information on the MTCS, justice to which was not done in the published reports. This response that was not previously made public is attached in full as in Appendix to this statement. FOE EWNI has not responded to MTCC’s reply to date.

Any report that disassociates itself from accuracy with this statement “The authors do not guarantee that all information is complete: readers are responsible for assessing the relevance and accuracy of the content of this publication”, as the Trouble with Timber report does, should not ignore the validated reply given by MTCC. FOE EWNI would be well-advised not to rush into publishing questionable and agitational reports, making baseless demands and recommendations.

As you are well aware, MTCC maintains established procedures for the submission and handling of complaints and disputes relating to the operation of the MTCS, as set out in MTCS GD 3003. No formal complaint was received which would have allowed verifiable evidences to be processed and investigated. Instead of using the proper mechanism, FOE EWNI published a report that shifts accountability away from the authors to the readers. This casts doubts on their intention to responsibly seek solutions. Therefore, MTCC questions the motivation behind this action, and calls for those reading the report to demand accuracy and evidence from FOE EWNI. 

MTCC Asks for Accurate Information: MTCC encourages all parties, including non-governmental organisations, to make sure the information they share is accurate and reflects the current situation. Reporting responsibly helps everyone to efficiently address the issues based on the established institutional arrangement of the MTCS.

All other parties seeking clarification or accurate, verified details regarding MTCS are encouraged to contact MTCC directly or access our website at www.mtcc.com.my.

End

Download the full statement below.

Publish Date: 19 May 2026

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Eligibility

The incentive is eligible for Malaysian companies that:

1. Obtain MTCS/PEFC Chain of Custody (COC) certification / Forest Management (FM) certification
2. Maintain or renew their MTCS/PEFC COC / FM certification

Companies must incur expenses related to audit certification activities conducted by a certification body accredited by the Department of Standards Malaysia (DSM). Certification bodies accredited by DSM for the purpose of issuing certifications under DSM, include the following programmes:

1. Product Certification Programme (PC)
2. Forest Management Certification Programme (FMC)

Claiming the Tax Deduction

1. Obtaining MTCS/PEFC Chain of Custody (COC) certification / Forest Management (FM) certification

Double Tax Deduction – Paragraph 34(6)(ma), Income Tax Act 1967

Expenses incurred by a company for the purpose of obtaining MTCS/PEFC certification, are eligible for a double tax deduction provided the certification is issued by an accredited Certification Body under Paragraph 34(6)(ma).

Expenses that may qualify for double tax deduction include: 

• Application fee
• Annual fee (for the first year only)
• Assessment fee
• Other fees imposed by the Certification Body for obtaining the certification

2. Maintaining or renewing their MTCS/PEFC COC / FM certification

Single Tax Deduction – Section 33(1), Income Tax Act 1967

After the MTCS/PEFC certification has been obtained, any fees charged by the Certification Body in subsequent years are eligible only for a single tax deduction under Section 33(1).

Expenses that may qualify for Single Tax Deduction include: 

• Annual surveillance fee
• Annual renewal fee
• Reassessment fee
• Other fees imposed by the Certification Body for maintaining the certification

Reference: GARIS PANDUAN; POTONGAN PERBELANJAAN DI BAWAH PERENGGAN 34(6)(m) DAN 34(6)(ma) AKTA CUKAI PENDAPATAN 1967 BAGI MAKSUD PENGIRAAN CUKAI PENDAPATAN

Publish Date: 12 May 2026

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The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) wishes to announce the postponement of the standard review and re-endorsement process for the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS). The current MTCS endorsement milestone includes a revision start date of 5 March 2026 and a submission deadline of 5 March 2027.

On 12 February 2026, the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) notified National Governing Bodies (NGBs) including MTCC regarding an upcoming international system revision scheduled for 2026. This revision specifically focuses on the PEFC Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) benchmark standard which is the PEFC ST 1003.

To ensure global consistency and system credibility, PEFC has advised National Governing Bodies to align their national reviews with the upcoming international revision. Postponing the current timeline prevents fragmented compliance and avoids a direct overlap with the new international standards.

In view of this, and in line with PEFC provisions, MTCC formally requested on 31 March 2026 to postpone the MTCS SFM standard review and re-endorsement process. The request was approved by PEFC on 14 April 2026 and was later endorsed by the MTCC BOT on 20April 2026. Consequently, the MTCS SFM standard revision and system endorsement process will be deferred until the revised PEFC SFM benchmark standards are officially published.

MTCC appreciates the continued support of all stakeholders and remains committed to ensuring that MTCS stays aligned with international requirements and best practices.

For further information on this matter, please contact MTCC at fm@mtcc.com.my or 03-2161 2298.

Publish Date: 5 May 2026

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The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) is pleased to announce the publication of MTCS GD 3003:2026 – Complaints Handling and Dispute Resolution Mechanism – Guide for Stakeholders, effective 1 May 2026. The Guideline and the improvements on the mechanism was approved by the MTCC Board of Trustees at its 110^th Meeting on 20 April 2026 and supersedes MTCS GD 3003:2023 – Complaint Handling and Dispute Resolution Procedure in its entirety. It is designed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and stakeholder confidence in the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS). With this publication, all complaints submitted on or after 1 May 2026 will be managed under the revised Guideline.

The Guideline sets out the improved Complaints Handling and Dispute Resolution Mechanism on how MTCC receives, manages, escalates, and resolves complaints and disputes arising from the implementation and operation of the MTCS. The Guideline also informs stakeholders of their rights and the process available to them. It is is aligned with PEFC GD 1004:2009 – Administration of PEFC Scheme, as MTCC is endorsed by PEFC.

Key Enhancements

• The scope of the Guideline is expanded to include stakeholder management, risk management, and corrective and preventive actions;
• Better clarity for stakeholders to participate in the complaints, timelines and clearer accountability for parties involved.
• A tiered Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) pathway encourages early resolution through negotiation, neutral evaluation, and facilitation before escalation to mediation;
• Clear roles are defined for the Complaints and Nonconformity Secretariat, Dispute Resolution Secretariat, Dispute Resolution Committee, and Board of Trustees, strengthening accountability and governance transparency.
• Improved access including within the MTCC website with a dedicated email channel, complaints@mtcc.com.my, has been established for all formal submissions.

Stakeholders are encouraged to access MTCS GD 3003:2026 – Complaints Handling and Dispute Resolution Mechanism – Guide for Stakeholders.

• Access the MTCS GD 3003:2026

For enquiries about the Guideline or submitting complaints, visit the Complaints Page: https://mtcc.com.my/complaints/.

Publish Date: 1 May 2026

The post MTCC Launches New Complaints Handling and Dispute Resolution Guideline appeared first on MTCC | MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL.

The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) is pleased to announce the official publication of MTCS PR 1001:2026 – Standard-Setting Procedures (including for Forest Management Certification Standards), effective 1 May 2026. Following the approval by the MTCC Board of Trustees on 20 April 2026, this new Procedure replaces the previous standard. Consequently, MTCS ST 1001:2021 is hereby withdrawn. As of the effective date, all standard-setting activities under the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS) will be governed by the requirements set forth in MTCS PR 1001:2026.

This document has been prepared to align with PEFC ST 1001:2024, ensuring that MTCC maintains its international standing and endorsement by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). A significant update in this release is the redesignation from a Normative Standard (ST) to an Operational Procedure (PR). This shift more accurately reflects the document’s functional role:

• Procedural Framework: It provides the operational instructions necessary for the development, review, and revision of MTCC standards.
• National Context: While aligned with PEFC benchmarks, the procedure is designed to be more prescriptive to facilitate effective implementation within the Malaysian national context.
• Comprehensive Scope: The Procedure covers the entire lifecycle of standard-setting, including development, production, review, reaffirmation, revision, approval, validation, ratification, and publication.
• Enhanced stakeholder participation opportunities: The Procedure introduces additional stakeholder groups and incorporates gender representation.

Stakeholders are encouraged to access the full text of MTCS PR 1001:2026.

• Access the MTCS PR 1001:2026

Publish Date: 1 May 2026

The post MTCC Launches a New Standard-Setting Procedure Effective 1st May 2026 appeared first on MTCC | MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL.

The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) is the scheme owner of the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS). MTCC announces the commencement of the periodic revision of the MTCS ST 3002:2024 (Procedure for Notification of Certification Bodies Operating Forest Management System and Chain of Custody Certification.

This document sets out the requirements and procedures for MTCC to notify Certification Bodies (CBs) under the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS). It provides a framework for Certification Bodies seeking PEFC recognition to carry out Forest Management and Chain of Custody certification in Malaysia, ensuring compliance with PEFC requirements and maintaining the integrity of certification activities.

This review is part of MTCC’s commitment to maintaining the credibility and integrity of MTCS, and to ensure continued alignment with applicable PEFC normative documents. Through this review, MTCC aims to:

• Strengthen the clarity and alignment of the notification;
• Enhance mutual understanding among stakeholders; and
• Clearly define roles and responsibilities, while ensuring continued compliance with PEFC recognition requirements

How To Participate:

1. Read the MTCS ST 3002:2024

• Access the MTCS ST 3002:2024 standard

2. Download the softcopy of the Initial Feedback Form from the MTCC Website

• Download the Initial Feedback Form in PDF (.pdf)

• Download the Initial Feedback Form in Word (.docx)

3. Complete the form and email it together with any attachments you may have to: coc@mtcc.com.my

The consultation period will be from 10 APRIL to 10 MAY 2026. 

For further information, please contact the MTCC’s Chain of Custody Unit at coc@mtcc.com.my or 03-2161 2298.

Publish Date: 10 April 2026

The post Public Announcement: Revision of MTCS ST 3002:2024 and Call for Initial Feedback on Existing Document appeared first on MTCC | MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL.

The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) is the scheme owner of the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS). Through the MTCS, MTCC supports Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) and Chain of Custody (COC) certification, providing assurance that forest resources and timber supply chains are managed responsibly and sustainably.

Background 

As Malaysia continues its transition towards a more sustainable and responsible economy, organisations are increasingly expected to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into their operations. In this evolving landscape, procurement and supply chain practices play a critical role in shaping environmental and social outcomes.

Procurement is no longer solely driven by cost and quality considerations. Today, it plays a strategic role in shaping environmental and social outcomes by influencing how products are sourced, produced, and delivered across the value chain. Organisations are increasingly expected to consider environmental impact, responsible sourcing, supplier practices, and product traceability as part of a more holistic and sustainable procurement approach.

In support of this shift, MTCC is conducting the Malaysia Sustainable Procurement Survey 2026 to better understand current practices, perspectives, and considerations related to sustainable procurement across organisations in Malaysia.

Purpose of the Survey

This survey aims to:

• Assess the current procurement practices and maturity levels of organisations in integrating sustainability into policies and operations;
• Understand the level of awareness, adoption, and demand for sustainable procurement and certification, including for forest and tree-based products;
• Identify key decision drivers and barriers faced by organisations in sourcing sustainable forest and tree-based products;
• Identify capacity-building needs and preferred engagement approaches to support implementation.

The findings will support MTCC in developing practical and industry-relevant strategies to strengthen sustainable procurement practices in Malaysia.

Who Should Participate

This survey is intended for individuals involved in:

• Procurement and purchasing;
• Supply chain and operations;
• Sustainability / ESG functions; and 
• Project or organisational decision-making roles.

We welcome participation from organisations across public and private sectors, regardless of their current level of experience in sustainable procurement.

All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and will be used solely for aggregate analysis and reporting purposes. No individual organisation will be identified. All data will be managed in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (PDPA).

The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

Survey Deadline: 28 May 2026

How To Participate:

1. Take the survey via the Google form link below:

• https://forms.gle/BGCXusoCZNko8L367

2. Alternatively, access the form by scanning the QR code: 

For further information or enquiries, please contact Mr. Muhammad Hasif Azizan / Ms. Prahashini Galadaran at comm@mtcc.com.my or +603-2161 2293.

Publish Date: 8 April 2026

The post Public Announcement: Malaysia Sustainable Procurement Survey 2026 appeared first on MTCC | MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL.

The Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) is the scheme owner of the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS). Through the MTCS, MTCC promotes Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) via Forest Management Certification (FMC), covering both natural forests and forest plantations. MTCS provides assurance that forest resources are managed responsibly and sustainably.

Background 

Following the ongoing developments at the international level and the need to ensure that the MTCS remains relevant and responsive to industry needs, MTCC is currently gathering information on the applicability of certification requirements for plantation forests established between 1 January 2010 to 30 December 2020. 

In this regard, MTCC is inviting plantation forest operators to participate in the “Forest Management Certification Opportunities for Plantation Forests Established between 2011 – 2020” survey to better understand the current status and potential of plantation forest in relation to certification requirements under the MTCS. The survey aims to obtain insights into the current status, challenges, and potential opportunities within Malaysia’s forest plantation sector.

Purpose of the Survey

This survey aims to:

• Understand the current landscape of plantation forests in Malaysia.
• Assess the level of readiness of plantation forests established between 2010 – 2020 for forest certification requirements.
• Identify potential gaps, constraints and challenges in meeting forest certification requirements.

The findings will assist MTCC in ensuring that the MTCS remains relevant, practical, and aligned with international requirements, while taking into account national circumstances and the characteristics of tropical forests.

Survey Overview

The survey consists of 47 questions , organised into two (2) sections which are:

• Section A: Information on Organisation / Company
• Section B: Information on Established / Planted Forest Plantations

Why You Should Participate

The findings will assist MTCC in ensuring that the MTCS remains relevant, practical, and aligned with international requirements, while taking into account national circumstances and the characteristics of tropical forests.

All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality and used solely for analysis and programme development purposes.

How to Complete and Submit the Survey

This survey form must be completed for each forest plantation. Companies managing more than one forest plantation are required to submit a separate survey form for each plantation. Respondents are requested to provide complete and accurate information to support meaningful analysis by MTCC.

Survey Deadline: 30 April 2026

How To Participate:

OPTION 1: GOOGLE FORM 

1. Access the form by clicking on the link below:

• https://forms.gle/pmUHWBxPWkWHb8bE8

2. Alternatively, access the form by scanning the QR code: 

OPTION 2: SUBMISSION VIA EMAIL 

1. Download the softcopy of the Feedback Form from the MTCC Website. It can be accessed via the links below: 

• PDF Version: https://tinyurl.com/MTCCSurveyPDF
• Word Document Version: https://tinyurl.com/MTCCSurveyDoc

2. Complete the form and email it together with any attachments you may have to: fm@mtcc.com.my

OPTION 3: SUBMISSION VIA MAIL 

1. Download the softcopy of the Feedback Form from the MTCC Website. It can be accessed via the links below: 

• PDF Version: https://tinyurl.com/MTCCSurveyPDF
• Word Document Version: https://tinyurl.com/MTCCSurveyDoc

2. Complete the form and mail it together with any attachments you may have to the following address: 

MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL 

C-08-05, BLOCK C, MEGAN AVENUE II 

NO. 12, JALAN YAP KWAN SENG 

50450 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

(Attention to: Forest Management Unit)

For further information, please contact MTCC’s Forest Management Unit at fm@mtcc.com.my or 03-2161 2298.

Publish Date: 31 March 2026

The post Public Announcement: Survey on Forest Management Certification Opportunities for Plantation Forests Established Between 2010 – 2020 appeared first on MTCC | MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL.

You may now contact us at +603-2161 2298 for all enquiries.

We thank you for your patience and understanding during the disruption.

Publish Date: 27 March 2026

The post Notice: MTCC Main Office Telephone Line Restored appeared first on MTCC | MALAYSIAN TIMBER CERTIFICATION COUNCIL.