Betong, Sri Aman can tap Asian food market

BETONG: This division and Sri Aman can capture a substantial share of the Asian food market by expanding modern agriculture and adopting smart farming technologies.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said agriculture is one of the sectors in which Betong had strong potential, with suitable land for food production and food security initiatives.

“If Betong combines with Sri Aman, we can capture a substantial Asian market for food production,” he said when officiating at the Sarawakku Sayang programme here today (Sept 26).

He said Betong should look beyond its local market and explore opportunities to export agricultural produce to Singapore and other regional markets.

Abang Johari said the development of the Agropark and the use of greenhouses could increase the production of vegetables and other food products.

He said the state is also looking to promote healthier and more environmentally friendly agricultural practices through the use of organic fertiliser.

Waste from the oil palm industry, he said, could be processed into fertiliser, allowing Betong to develop its own identity as an organic food producer.

“We can develop the brand: ‘Betong, Organic Producer of Food’,” he said.

Abang Johari also highlighted perennial rice, saying the crop could regrow after harvesting and reduce the need for repeated planting.

He said the variety had already been tested in Baram, where the trial appeared successful.

“If Baram succeeds, Betong can succeed too,” he said.

Abang Johari said one hectare could produce 14 metric tonnes of rice, with two harvests a year, potentially increasing people’s income.

Speaking to reporters after the event at a press conference, he said Betong’s land might also be suitable for perennial rice, although this would be subject to further research.

Abang Johari said modern technology would also be important in increasing agricultural productivity, particularly through smart farming and the use of drones.

He said drones were essential to modern agriculture, but farmers using them would need proper training and licensing.

“You must have somebody to pilot the drone. And to pilot the drone, you must have a licence,” he said.

Abang Johari said he supported the establishment of a Flying Academy in Betong in collaboration with the private sector to provide training and licensing for drone pilots.

He said farmers who could not operate drones could have their children trained to use them to fertilise crops.

He also called on CENTEXS to use its facilities to train drone pilots and support the development of smart paddy plantations.

Abang Johari said the development of modern agriculture would also require supporting infrastructure, including irrigation systems, as well as people with the skills to operate new technologies.

He said the combination of suitable agricultural land, modern technology and supporting infrastructure would allow Betong and Sri Aman to expand beyond local markets and target food demand across Asia.

He said this was part of the state’s broader effort to add value to its existing resources and develop new economic opportunities for the people.