By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 23: Meluan assemblyman Rolland Duat Jubin believes Sarawak Fertiliser, a subsidiary of the Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra), should play a role in stabilising fertiliser prices in Sarawak.
In his debate speech today at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN), Rolland stated that agriculture is a subject close to his heart.
“Lately, the prices of agricultural inputs are skyrocketing, especially fertilisers and animal feed.
“High fertiliser prices have significantly affected the smallholders, especially in my constituency, known for being one of the largest pepper producers.
“Even the oil palm smallholders feel the pinch even though at the moment it is cushioned by the all-time high prices of Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) and Crude Palm Oil (CPO),” he said.
Additionally, Rolland noted that while he understands that external factors such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict are beyond anyone’s control, he believes numerous plans can be devised to mitigate the impact.
“I am not sure of their costing, but I believe as a subsidiary of a government body, they still have this social obligation embedded in their business policy,” he explained. — DayakDaily
