KUCHING, Sept 2: Green World Genetics Sdn Bhd (GWG) has been licensed to create a quality seed production centre, crop breeding and processing plant, training as well as Research and Development Centre on a 27.59 hectare site at the Department of Agriculture (DOA) Training Centre in Debak, Spaoh in Betong Division.
GWG inked the licence agreement on the food production programme with the state government which was witnessed by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
“Sarawak is keen to start its seed industry programme. We are looking forward to this collaboration to make the state the country’s producer of quality seeds.
“The country is even short of paddy seed which could affect its future food security,” he pointed out during the simple ceremony held recently.
Uggah, who is the Minister of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development (Manred), disclosed that the state was also in the process of identifying more land for its food programmes.
“We want to make them available for interested entrepreneurs. We need to be very competitive as we face many competitors in the region in food production.
“In this regard, I want the department officers to help our private sector in any such developments instead of becoming a stumbling block,” he urged.
GWG was represented by its chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Chua Kim Aik while DOA director Dr Alvin Chai Lian Kuet signed on behalf of the state government.
The state government also sealed another agreement with Saramanis Sdn Bhd, which was represented by its executive director Jason Jong, in an effort to develop the state’s pineapple industry.
Saramanis has been licensed to use a 50 hectare site at the DOA Northern Region Research Centre, Kabuloh in Miri to develop a pineapple demonstration plot.
It will be used to train farmers on the latest technology in producing high quality pineapples which meet export market requirements and standards.
Assistant Minister of Native Land Datuk Roland Sagah and Manred Permanent Secretary Edwin Abit were among those present. — DayakDaily
