Premier: S’wak hopes to be major player in mechanised oil palm harvester production

KUCHING (Oct 14): Sarawak hopes to become a major player in the production of mechanised oil palm harvesters, following the unveiling of the ‘Lipan’ harvester in Miri recently, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Following that, he pointed out the importance of technological innovation in the state’s agricultural sector.

“We will discuss with the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). Here in Sarawak, through the Sarawak Plantation Berhad (SPB), we are embracing this technological shift with new tech to harvest palm oil,” he told reporters after officiating the Oil Palm Technology Transfer Programme at the CIDB Sarawak Convention Centre today.

He also highlighted the state’s commitment to producing the harvester locally, although he admitted there was still work to be done to improve the machine.

“We are developing the machine — the base technology is already there. We need to enhance the technology, especially in terms of efficiency. Upgrades are necessary,” he explained.

Abang Johari also said the private sector, particularly SPB, is leading this initiative and the state government plans to invite MPOB to become an equity partner in the venture.

“This is a new development and we already have the patent rights. Sarawak will become a key producer in the oil palm industry and industry players will be able to purchase our machines,” he said.

He also noted the global potential for the harvester, not just within Southeast Asia but in other regions such as Africa, where palm oil plantations are prevalent.

“Palm oil is not only found in Southeast Asia; it is grown globally, including in Africa. Which is why we can sell this machine beyond our region,” he said.

Recently, it was reported SPB introduced ‘Lipan’, a mechanised oil palm harvester, and during its launch at the Subis Plantation in Miri, Abang Johari praised it for addressing labour shortages while boosting productivity and efficiency.

Also present at the event were Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, his deputies Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail and Datuk Martin Ben and other officials.