A SARAWAK Coffee Development Board has been suggested, aimed at carrying out feasibility studies on this industry in Song District.
Lidam Assan (GPS-Katibas) said Song, with its vast uncultivated land, could be another food basket for Sarawak.
“In view of the popularity of coffee among the younger generation, where a latte is sold for at least RM7, and a bubble latte, for RM9 or more, coffee planting is now on our agenda.
“Presently, there is already a team of Song and Kapit residents who are committed to the planting of coffee (Liberica) and a one-stop collection and high value downstream product processing centre will be set up by a private company.
“We hope to see more commercial plantation coming up emulating this pioneer project. Such a model may be applicable to other commodities or cash crops such as cocoa.”
He said this in his speech during the motion of appreciation to the Head of State (TYT) Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud today.
Lidam also touched on the potential of tourism in Song, which is endowed with beautiful rivers, scenic mountains and unexplored forests apart from having a wide range of social and cultural activities.
“Song is also blessed with its unique seasonal produce such as Dabai and Empurau, well-loved and appreciated by Sarawakians.
“It is my vision that tourism programmes or events such as Dabai Song and Empurau Katibas may be held to cater to tourists and locals.
“I would like to propose to the state government and all related agencies to set up a Heritage and Tourism Centre in Song.”
He explained that this centre would be a marketing platform and tourist information centre to not only support Song’s tourism programmes but also assist the Tourism Ministry’s eco-tourism programmes.
On another matter, he called for immediate action to tackle the issue of illegal squatters in Song District.
“To solve this, the Sarawak government and the relevant local authority could consider acquiring land along the planned circumferential road (advisable along the newly completed road), where proper housing can be built with sufficient amenities and infrastructure for the house buyers.”
