Sarawak taking steps to boost padi production, says state minister

Sarawak is looking into ways to increase padi production in order to improve its rice self-sufficiency level, according to Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, the Sarawak Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister. He announced that a meeting with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will be held on October 3 to discuss solutions and long-term plans to enhance padi production and rice supply. Currently, the self-sufficiency rate for rice in the state stands at around 36%, meaning the state has to import around 60% of its rice needs.

In a press conference, Dr Rundi highlighted that the price of imported rice has risen due to challenges faced by major rice suppliers like India and China, such as bad weather conditions. These countries, he explained, have large populations to feed, and their efforts to control exports push prices higher. He also mentioned that padi production in Sarawak has been declining as many farmers choose to cultivate other crops and commodities like palm oil instead.

Despite the inability to control farmers from switching to different crops, Dr Rundi emphasized the importance of educating them about the numerous high-value crops that are easier to cultivate, such as chillies and melons. He believes that promoting these alternatives will not only contribute to food security but also help in the reduction of the rice import deficit.

In a related development, the Rural and Regional Development Ministry is currently assessing the suitability of lands in Kota Belud, Sabah, and Sri Aman, Sarawak for padi cultivation projects. Deputy Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang stated that these efforts are expected to enhance the local agro-food sector and strengthen national food security.

Overall, the government of Sarawak is actively seeking ways to increase padi production and reduce its reliance on rice imports. With many factors contributing to the rise in imported rice prices, the state aims to improve its self-sufficiency rate by promoting the cultivation of alternative high-value crops, while also assessing new lands for padi cultivation projects.