A Malaysian first: FSC-certified bamboo and rubberwood

FSC Malaysia is proud to announce that the FSC group certificate has been extended to include Malaysia’s first-ever FSC-certified bamboo and FSC-certified rubberwood – a significant step forward for responsible forest management and community-based enterprises.

Bamboo certification

FSC-certified bamboo opens up a wide range of sustainable applications – from green construction materials, to design innovation and bamboo bio-char.

This achievement was made possible through FSC Malaysia’s collaboration with SEAD, who have long supported the Orang Asli communities in Perak in adopting sustainable bamboo harvesting practices. Our appreciation goes to the French Embassy of Malaysia for their invaluable support in making this project a reality, and to CMO Group for their commitment in enabling small and community forests to achieve FSC certification.

With this milestone, the team is now preparing for FSC Chain of Custody (CoC) certification, unlocking greater opportunities for responsibly sourced bamboo products in Malaysia and beyond.

Rubberwood certification

Following the launch of this project in August, two sites totalling approximately 1,200 hectares are now FSC-certified. In addition, International Furniture Alliance Sdn Bhd., the supply chain specialist for this project, has also successfully obtained its FSC CoC certification. 

The project partners continue to work closely with the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) to expand FSC-certification to additional areas across Peninsular Malaysia, further strengthening responsible natural rubber supply chains.

FSC-certified rubberwood is widely sought after in the furniture sector – from flooring to a range of interior and commercial applications. It is also a key raw material for composite wood products such as medium-density fibreboard (MDF), particleboard, and plywood.

Across the value chain, companies are now progressively preparing for FSC CoC certification, strengthening market confidence and ensuring that responsibly sourced rubberwood can reach international markets.

This milestone is a powerful example of how partnership, innovation, and community leadership can come together to build a more sustainable and inclusive future.