Sarawak to triple paddy production to 358,000 metric tonnes by 2030

Awang Tengah (fifth right) and others in a group photo at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) in Kuala Lumpur on July 3, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 3: The Sarawak government is embarking on large-scale paddy cultivation with the aim of increasing paddy production from 118,000 metric tonnes currently to 358,000 metric tonnes by 2030.

Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan outlined that this initiative is intended to achieve rice self-sufficiency.

“Our agropreneurs will use high-yielding paddy varieties, adopt the latest technologies, and implement innovative farm management practices to improve rice productivity,” he said in his speech text at the grand opening of ‘The Future of Food and Agriculture International Conference 2024’ at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) in Kuala Lumpur today.

He highlighted that the Sarawak government had successfully conducted a pilot project in Samarahan, which increased paddy yield from one metric tonne per hectare to five metric tonnes per hectare.

“As such, we will expand this initiative to increase our self-sufficiency level and for the export market,” he added.

Awang Tengah, who is also Minister for International Trade, Industry, and Investment (Mintred) Sarawak, also announced plans to establish a livestock biotechnology centre to advance research in precision livestock farming, genetic improvement, and reproductive technologies.

“With the adoption of this cutting-edge technology, we are able to produce quality breeder stock locally. This facility will also serve as a modern training centre for farmers and industrial players,” he added.

To boost cattle production, the Sarawak government is promoting cattle integration with oil palm estates with aim to increase revenue and optimise land use.

“Currently, there are about 1.6 million hectares of oil palm plantations, with potential carrying capacity of 128,000 heads. This presents opportunities for the private sector to further venture into livestock and related industries,” he explained.

Another significant initiative is the deployment of artificial reef balls along Sarawak’s coastline. This project, recognised internationally for creating the world’s longest reef ball barrier at 746 kilometre, is desinged to preserve marine life and manage the diverse marine ecosystem, thereby enhancing fishery resources and attracting investment in marine industries.

Awang Tengah emphasised the Sarawak government’s commitment to research, development, and innovation to enhance production, reduce waste, and promote sustainability in the food supply chain.

“We encourage collaborations and partnerships between governments, NGOs, academia, and other stakeholders to develop innovative solutions towards sustainability.

“To embrace circular economy principles, the Sarawak government is promoting the utilisation of agricultural waste by converting it into by-products such as animal feeds and fertilisers, aligning with Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) practices and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he said.

Moving forward, Awang Tengah called on all stakeholders to foster strategic partnerships across sectors and invest in research and development that support inclusive growth in the agriculture.

“Together, we can build a food-secure world and ensure access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food for everyone,” he concluded. — DayakDaily