Kuala Lumpur:Participation in the Sustainable Wood DIY Contest 2026, organized by the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC), has seen a significant increase, with 149 entries received this year compared to 48 entries in its inaugural year, 2024.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the contest saw 88 entries, or 59 percent, in the student category, while the remaining 61 entries came from the public category. This rise indicates a growing interest, particularly among younger participants, in exploring wood's potential through design and creation of innovative products.

MTC Chairman Datuk Zainal Abidin Abdullah noted that the increase in participation signifies the contest's rising popularity. He expressed enthusiasm over the growth from 48 entries in 2024 to 149 entries this year, highlighting the contest's role in attracting more participants to creatively explore wood's potential. The remarks were made after the prize-giving ceremony, officiated by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad.

The contest, themed 'From Waste to Wonders', encouraged entrants to transform wood waste, recycled wood, and offcuts into creative and functional products. Submissions included eco-craft table lamps, wooden guitars, multipurpose frames, folding chessboards, and innovative lamp designs.

This initiative by MTC aims to enhance public understanding of wood as a renewable resource, advocating for its creative, optimal, and responsible use.