Fifteen companies have expressed interest in a proposed furniture industrial park in Kuching, but the project has not yet been implemented, Deputy Premier Awang Tengah Ali Hasan says. Sarawak Tribune reported that the project was approved under the 13th Malaysia Plan and is intended to support higher-value downstream timber manufacturing. The expressions of interest do not mean the companies have started operations or committed completed investments. Awang Tengah said timber businesses face rising operating costs, uncertain global markets and stricter environmental requirements. The report did not give an opening date or a specific site for the proposed park.