KUCHING: Sri Aman has been identified as an area for paddy cultivation to boost rice production in Sarawak and improve the country’s rice self-sufficiency (SSL).
Premier Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said in order to develop the paddy fields, the state needs a big allocation.
“We need a lot of money to build and upgrade the state’s agricultural infrastructure facilities. Thus, I have discussed with the federal government (as we will need their fund) that we will develop Sri Aman together – it will be a joint development,” he said.
He said this was to ensure the sustainability of Sarawak’s paddy and rice industry which will also benefit local communities.
Abang Johari said the Sarawak Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Ministry will be given a new name, which would be announced soon, to include and focus on commodities as well.
“We want to change the perception that farming is a difficult job where a farmer always wear a straw hat and a hoe and must work hard or spend long hours at their farm every day.
“We need to adopt new agriculture technologies as smart farming is the way to move forward,” he added.
Abang Johari was speaking at the launch of Pesta Benak or Tidal Bore Festival in Sri Aman today.
He also promised to look for more allocation to extend the newly-completed Sri Aman Waterfront as well as to further enhance its facilities and beautify the area.
“Let me find some money (allocation) so that we can extend the waterfront and enable the locals to transport ikan bulu – a product of Sungai Batang Lupar here,” he said.
Meanwhile, the 870m-long Batang Lupar 2 Bridge is currently under construction, with a slight delay expected due to shortage of workers.
However, he assured the government would carry on with the project as once it is completed, it would connect Sri Aman to Sarawak Second Trunk Road and Coastal Road and head directly to Betong.
“This will definitely open up new areas and spur economic activities,” Abang Johari added.
Among those who present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Anak Utom, Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Seri Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development II (Talent Development) Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Batang Lupar MP Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim.
