By Ma Chee Seng
KUCHING, Aug 13: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform the state into one of Malaysia’s largest rice producers by 2030, with an annual output target of up to 500,000 tonnes.
Speaking at the opening of the National Paddy Conference 2025 at Raia Hotel on Tuesday night (Aug 12), Abang Johari said Sarawak’s strategy hinges on large-scale mechanisation, advanced seed technology, and soil enrichment to boost productivity.
“Initially, rural farmers were sceptical, but after seeing the results, they became convinced,” he said, referring to the pilot project in Gedong where modern farming techniques boosted yields from about one tonne per hectare to eight tonnes per hectare, achieving up to five harvests in two years.
“This means a potential of 40 tonnes per hectare in that period, proving that agriculture can be a profitable career,” he added.
Abang Johari pointed out that Sarawak has already earmarked 14,000 hectares for rice cultivation, with potential to double the area.
Sarawak government has also committed RM1 billion for irrigation projects, recognising water management as critical to sustaining high yields.
In 2023, he said the Sarawak government allocated RM1 million from its own funds for irrigation and will propose a matching contribution from the federal government to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
However, Abang Johari affirmed that the initiative will proceed regardless of whether federal funds were provided.
“We want to ensure self-sufficiency for Sarawak and contribute to the nation’s needs. With our vast land, we can go beyond meeting our own demand and help reduce Malaysia’s dependence on rice imports,” he said.
He emphasised the need for a steady supply of quality seeds and research that translates into real-world farming improvements, urging agencies such as the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) to step up efforts in developing seed varieties suited to Sarawak’s soil conditions.
To further boost productivity, Sarawak is also exploring local fertiliser production, including through biomass processing and converting natural gas into urea.
Calling for closer cooperation between Sarawak, Sabah, and Peninsular Malaysia, the Premier said such partnerships are vital to achieving national food security.
“Let us work together so that by 2030, we become one of the nation’s largest rice producers. This is my hope and prayer,” he said.
Malaysia Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup was among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
