Premier: 200 acres in Debak identified for coconut cultivation under new agro model

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By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, April 17: The Sarawak government has identified about 200 acres in Debak for coconut cultivation under a new agro-based model aimed at modernising agriculture and boosting rural incomes.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg noted that coconut products from Bagan Datuk, Perak are already being exported to China, and Sarawak aims to replicate a similar approach in Debak.

Abang Johari said he was earlier taken to visit Lubok Tamang Agropark, where coconuts are cultivated using modern techniques and processed under a dedicated brand for commercial production.

“We have requested the company to plant coconuts in Debak and to act as an anchor company that can purchase the produce.

“Villagers then can cultivate coconuts on their own land and sell to the company, which means they will have a guaranteed market,” he said when speaking at the Majlis Bersama Pemimpin Peringkat DUN Saribas, broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) today.

Under the model, the company will be responsible for large-scale purchasing and export of the coconuts.

He said the initiative introduces a new approach to agriculture through structured collaboration between smallholders and industry players, moving away from traditional farming methods.

Abang Johari also highlighted the use of the pandan coconut variety, which is shorter, produces higher yields, and is better suited for modern farming systems.

“With this method, if one family plants coconuts and sells to the company, their income can increase to at least RM6,000 a month,” he added.

Earlier, Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Development II (Community Wellbeing Development) and Saribas assemblyman Datuk Razi Sitam said the development of agricultural projects was increasingly gaining traction among both local and external operators.

He said the Lubok Tamang Agropark project was originally proposed by him and later approved by the Premier, with a total allocation of RM53 million.

“Later, an additional RM60 million was also allocated under the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) for infrastructure development in the surrounding area,” he said.

Razi said the project is expected to create job opportunities for local residents while boosting agricultural output and the rural economy.

He expressed confidence that Lubok Tamang Agropark has the potential to become a major coconut production hub, as well as a centre for other suitable crops, further strengthening Saribas as a progressive agricultural region.

He added that he hopes the project, implemented under the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA), can be expedited, with site entry expected as early as June.

Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas; Deputy Minister for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development I (Youth and Sport Development) Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; and Betong MP Dato Dr Richard Rapu. — DayakDaily

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