Over 1.25 million hectares of NCR land have been measured as of August

KUCHING, 23 September: Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that more than 1.25 million hectares of NCR across Sarawak have been successfully measured as of August 31 through the New Initiative NCR Land Measurement Program.

He said that while the achievements reflected great progress in resolving NCR's land issue, the quality of the solution should continue to be taken into consideration.

According to Brother Johari, the matter is important because the settlement process involves the well-being of landlords, communities and stakeholders.

"Technology can speed up the process, but engagement with landowners, communities and stakeholders remains important.

"Clear processes and good communication will reduce disputes, increase confidence and ensure that people's rights continue to be protected", he said.

Brother Johari said so at the inaugural closing dinner of Innovation and Integrity Surveyed Soil Day (HIITS) 2026 here, tonight.

He added that the comprehensive solution is a key approach in addressing NCR land issues, ranging from area identification, border tightening and validation to documentation, registration and issuance of property rights.

Meanwhile, regarding the implementation of state government infrastructure projects, he said that land ownership process should prioritize rights of landowners.

"The land acquisition process must be supported by a professional, consistent and sustainable assessment so that development can be implemented on time, without disregarding the right of the landowner to receive
fair compensation", he said.

Johari said the valuation function should move further towards data-based through the use of transactional data, geospatial information and more structured market analytics.

"This will improve the accuracy of assessment, speed up government decisions, reduce disputes and ensure that state income is properly assessed", he explained.

He added that the assessment of amendments to ownership conditions, ongoing disposals, land lease renewals and major projects should take into account market changes as well as development potential carefully. -TVS