By Ma Chee Seng
KUCHING, Aug 13: Sarawak has cemented its position as one of Malaysia’s leading agricultural states, recording 147,414 agricultural holdings and placing it second in the country.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup highlighted that Sarawak contributed RM23.4 billion from paddy sales, placing it just behind Kedah. Sarawak’s 14,394 paddy holdings account for 11.4 per cent of Malaysia’s total.
“This achievement highlights not only Sarawak’s potential but also the tangible results from coordinated State and federal efforts in boosting the sector,” he said in his speech during the National Paddy Conference 2025 held at the Raia Hotel on Tuesday night (Aug 12).
The event was officiated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He noted that transformation programmes in key areas including Gedong, Lingga, Stumbin, Simunjan, and Lundu have proven that modern farming techniques can deliver impressive results, with yields reaching up to eight metric tonnes per hectare.
“These developments are critical in ensuring food security while positioning Sarawak as a major rice-producing State, underscoring the government’s strong dedication to the industry,” he added.
Joseph also commended the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) for introducing new paddy strains such as MR CL3 and MR CL4, which combat weedy rice, as well as the Kesidang variety designed for non-granary and lowland swamp conditions.
Meanwhile, seed production for the MR 331 and MR 338 varieties is ongoing in Skudup Chupak, which has been identified as a pilot site for future MARDI initiatives. — DayakDaily
