Krian rep wants allocation for agricultural inputs

KRIAN assemblyman Friday Belik has proposed that a portion of the RM630 million from Sarawak’s revenue in 2023 be allocated back to smallholders in the form of plantation road projects or other agricultural inputs.

As outlined by the Premier during the presentation of the State Budget 2024, he said one of Sarawak’s revenue sources in 2023 is from crude palm oil and palm kernel, amounting to RM630 million.

“A portion of the contributors are smallholders. Therefore, we suggest that a part of the RM630 million, say RM50 million, be returned to these smallholders in the form of plantation road projects or other agricultural inputs such as pesticides or fertilisers,” he said during the debate on the State Budget 2024 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting, today.

To further promote development in the Krian constituency, he also proposed the establishment of a New Growth Area in the district of Nanga Budu.

Friday said that this area has a hinterland with a population mostly consisting of oil palm, pepper, and rubber planters.

“It is located between the Pakan, Saratok, and Spaoh Districts. This area still has untapped land and the potential for commercial or private development. It also has the potential for development as eco-tourism with its unique and beautiful natural surroundings,” he said.

Friday further requested that the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) conduct a detailed study and planning for government approval in the near future.

Regarding dilapidated schools, he noted that most primary schools in the Krian area are in very poor physical condition. Although the Rural Transformation Project (RTP) fund is allocated annually for maintenance and improvement of infrastructure in several schools, he said it is insufficient.

“Therefore, we urge the relevant agencies to take action to upgrade or repair these schools. This is crucial to ensure that rural children can continue their education comfortably. The conditions of teacher and staff quarters are also very distressing,” he said.