By DayakDaily Team
DALAT, Aug 22: A new community-based project in Dalat is turning water hyacinth, food waste, and sago processing residues into organic fertiliser and animal feed, creating new rural economic opportunities while tackling local environmental problems.
The Organic Fertiliser Processing and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Breeding Farm in Dalat, a collaboration between PETRONAS and the Sarawak government, was officially launched today by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, represented by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian.
According to a press handout, the initiative uses Black Soldier Fly larvae to convert organic waste into valuable biomass, including invasive water hyacinth from Sungai Batang Oya, food waste from schools and restaurants, and sago processing residues, which are processed into organic fertiliser and animal feed.
Beyond waste management, the project also aims to address the spread of water hyacinth in Sungai Batang Oya, recover resources from organic waste, and reduce its environmental impact.
PETRONAS Sarawak general manager Norazibah Md Rabu said the project demonstrated how collaboration could create shared value by tackling local environmental challenges while opening economic opportunities for rural communities.
“This community project in Dalat reflects our commitment to supporting community well-being while advancing sustainable solutions that address local challenges,” she said.
She said transforming organic waste into useful resources could create new economic opportunities while contributing to environmental conservation and the development of a circular economy ecosystem in Sarawak.
The project also emphasises community participation and capability building, with PETRONAS and the Sarawak government positioning the initiative as part of broader efforts to empower rural communities and strengthen environmental stewardship.
The initiative supports the aspirations of Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 towards a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable State. — DayakDaily
