SEBUYAU: The Sarawak government is pioneering a water-based technology using elevated water tanks to irrigate paddy plantations and also supply power to the local community.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the pioneering approach is part of the state government’s food security strategy aimed at rice self-sufficiency by 2026 or 2027.
“Hopefully, it will start this year in the Stumbin and Lingga areas in Sri Aman.
“I estimate that by 2026 or 2027, we will achieve rice self-sufficiency. If this happens, not only will we no longer need to import rice, but we might also become rice exporters to other regions. It will also benefit areas like Lingga, Stumbin, Simunjan, and Tanjung Purun.
“Let Sarawak lead in pioneering new water technologies,” he said during the Sebuyau district level Hari Raya gathering held at Sebuyau Development Hall here today (Apr 27).
Abang Johari added that a study has been conducted on the innovation and it has shown that it is feasible to implement.
He explained that for the project, water sourced from the Batang Lupar catchment area will be pumped into an elevated tank, with a turbine installed at the discharge pipe’s end to convert it into a power plant.
He said the water released from the discharge pipe through the turbine would be contained in an area to be used for paddy irrigation.
“This means the power plant has two functions, ensuring both electricity and ample water supply for rice production. This has never been implemented in other places.
“This innovative approach will provide structured agricultural areas and boost rural incomes,” he added.
Furthermore, he outlined plans to engage Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) in developing a low-tension cable network to provide power that is generated from the elevated tank to the local village, including the paddy plantation area.
Also present were Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Women, Childhood, and Community Well-being Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, Sebuyau assemblyman Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi and State Secretary Datuk Seri Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
