Baram District to get bamboo planting, smart farming project

KUCHING (July 16): A Bamboo Planting and Smart Farming Project is set to be implemented in Baram District, said the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC).

STIDC and Malaysian Community Care Foundation (MCCF) officials recently visited the district accompanied by village chief Laing Usat to encourage local communities to participate in the project.

“One of the primary initiatives is to attract investors to engage in bamboo planting, smart community farming, and eco-tourism across the extensive 49,000ha Native Customary Rights (NCR) land in the Baram area.

“This effort aims to develop the potential of the NCR area through collaboration among landowners, investors, and STIDC, which oversees the overall development of the bamboo industry in Sarawak,” STIDC said in a press release.

The corporation said the project aims to produce various bamboo-based products such as panel boards, flooring panels, furniture, construction materials, and bamboo fibre for industrial use, as well as textiles.

“This initiative aims to enhance the local economy of the Baram area while responsibly utilising natural resources.

“The Bamboo Planting and Smart Farming Project in Baram holds promise for sustainable development,” it said.

The press release said efforts are underway to harness the region’s vast natural resources responsibly with support from STIDC, MCCF, and local leaders.

By promoting bamboo planting, smart farming practices, and eco-tourism, it explained the project aims not only to diversify the local economy but also to create a foundation for long-term prosperity in the Baram area.

“This collaborative initiative emphasises a commitment to both environmental stewardship and economic growth, paving the way for a brighter future for the community and its natural surroundings,” added STIDC.