By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 19: Sarawak is exploring the potential of exporting its popular aiskrim gula apong (palm sugar ice cream), with efforts underway to develop a distinct local brand under the newly established Sago and Nipah Development Board (SNDB).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Board will spearhead the development of the nipah industry, including value-added products like gula apong, a traditional sweetener derived from the nipah palm.
“People love aiskrim gula apong now. If we know how to make it well, we can export it.
“This ice cream tastes even better than strawberry or other flavours,” he said when officiating the opening of the Batang Saribas 1 Bridge and the launch of the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), which was broadcast live by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) via Facebook today.
Abang Johari emphasised that the Sarawak government will conduct a study through the Board to create a dedicated brand for Sarawak’s gula apong ice cream, which has gained popularity not only locally but also among visitors.
The initiative is part of the State’s broader effort to modernise agriculture and rural industries through innovation, infrastructure development and product branding.
Earlier in his speech, Beting Maro assemblyman Razaili Gapor said the Pusa and Beting Maro areas hold strong potential to be developed as key agro-food production and agro-tourism hubs in Sarawak, given their reliance on agriculture, fisheries, and the nipah- and gula apong-based industries.
He shared that Beting Maro is currently developing two nipah plantations along with Sarawak’s first gula apong Collection, Processing and Packaging Centre (CPPC).
“In addition, pineapple plantations are being actively developed in Beladin and Pusa, coconut plantations in Semarang, Sepinang, and Batang Maro, as well as a rice granary in Muton Undai,” he added. – DayakDaily
