By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, May 12: The Sarawak Padi and Rice Board Bill 2026 is not merely an ordinary agricultural legislation, as it is also about Sarawak’s future survival, resilience, and food sovereignty, says Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang.
During his debate on the Bill in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today, he said that the world is facing growing uncertainty in global food supply due to climate change, geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions, rising import costs, and global economic instability.
“We have witnessed how some countries have begun restricting their own food exports to protect their domestic supply. In such circumstances, Sarawak cannot continue to rely excessively on imported rice,” he said.
He went on to say that food security is no longer merely an agricultural issue as it is now an issue of sovereignty, strategic security, and long-term economic stability—which is why the establishment of the Sarawak Padi and Rice Board is both timely and necessary.
Additionally, he said that the Bill is aligned with the aspirations of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, in which one of its core pillars is economic prosperity through sustainable development and food security.
He also said that with the board, Sarawak will have the authority to plan and develop the paddy and rice industry, manage funds, provide loans, undertake investments, establish companies, declare development areas, carry out enforcement, and collect comprehensive industry data.
As a representative from a rural constituency, he also said he could see the Bill opening opportunities for the people in rural and interior areas due to vast land and enormous potential for modern agricultural development.
However, he said that small farmers continue to face challenges such as limited market access, lack of capital, insufficient technology, inadequate infrastructure, and low productivity.
“With the establishment of this board, I hope the government will expand modern irrigation systems, introduce smart farming, promote drone technology, strengthen mechanisation, establish collection centres, and enhance research into high-quality padi seeds.”
At the same time, he proposed that the board increase youth participation in the agriculture sector by introducing initiatives such as youth agricultural training programmes, young agropreneur schemes, start-up grants, modern agricultural technology training, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
In terms of governance and accountability, the Tamin assemblyman also called for annual audits, transparent reporting, performance monitoring, and strong management.
“I believe this Bill represents a strategic and important step towards building a more resilient future for Sarawak. We do not want a situation where our people may have money, but an insufficient food supply.
“This Bill is about securing the future of Sarawak in line with the vision of PCDS 2030—a prosperous, inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Sarawak for future generations.” — DayakDaily
