By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 14: Sarawak’s palm oil sector continues its upward trajectory, marking robust growth in the first quarter of 2024, with a total export value of RM3.62 billion during January until March 2024.
According to Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development (M-Ficord) Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, the remarkable growth in Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) production can be attributed to several factors, including enhanced labour supply and the expansion of mature palm areas.
“Sarawak boasts the largest oil palm planted area in Malaysia, spanning 1.62 million hectares,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech on the seventh day of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting here today.
The minister also said that Sarawak’s palm oil industry diversification is evident with the presence of five palm kernel crushing plants, six palm oil refineries, and a biodiesel plant.
“However, there is currently no oleochemical plant operating in the region, indicating potential avenues for future growth and investment.
“With its resilient performance and strategic initiatives, Sarawak’s palm oil sector remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economy, poised for sustained growth and development in the coming years,” Rundi remarked. — DayakDaily
