Bentong: The Pahang Forestry Department (JPNP) has denied allegations of illegal logging activities in Bentong as claimed in a video that recently went viral on social media. In a statement, JPNP clarified that the tree-felling activity shown in the video was not illegal logging but was conducted on privately owned land located outside the Permanent Reserved Forest (PRF) area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JPNP and the state government are taking this matter seriously, as it concerns the sustainability of forest management and public perception of environmental conservation efforts in the state. The statement noted that the area in question comprised five privately owned land lots that had received approval from the authorities for an agricultural development project.

The project is being implemented in collaboration with the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) to develop and manage land that will benefit the landowners and the local agricultural sector. JPNP emphasized that the tree-felling works at the location were part of the site preparation process for a legally approved project and not illegal logging activities as alleged in the viral post.

The statement further asserted that JPNP is committed to ensuring any development and land-use activities are conducted in full compliance with existing rules and laws, while also preserving environmental sustainability. The public is advised against speculating or spreading unverified information, as such actions could cause misunderstanding and unease within the community.

JPNP remains open to receiving official information from the public and will take firm action if there are any violations of the law under the forestry acts and enactments in the state.