Sunday, 7 December 2025

Author: Jacintha Jolene

NCR land development continues to boost rural livelihoods

Native Customary Rights (NCR) land development continues to uplift the wellbeing and livelihoods of rural communities, with 153,000 hectares now cultivated with oil palm involving 42,500 landowners. Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom said the government will further enhance engagement with NCR landowners to

Sarawak steps up aquaculture to reduce fisheries trade imbalance

SARAWAK’S fisheries industry remains a key contributor to the state’s food security and economy, with a combined total of 15,191 fishermen and fish farmers across the marine, inland and aquaculture sectors. Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom said the industry produced 106,715 metric tonnes

State identifies 15,000 hectares for commercial paddy cultivation

THE Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development has identified about 15,000 hectares for commercial paddy cultivation under the Design, Build, Operate and Transfer (DBOT) Public-Private Partnership model. Its Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom said 6,100 hectares have so far been approved for implementation, including areas in Tanjung

Nanta takes charge of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry too

KUCHING: Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has been appointed to carry out the duties and functions of the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) effective Dec 3. Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri bin Abu Bakar said the decision was conveyed by the Prime

Federal Common Use Building proposal in progress  

THE Office of the Federal Secretary of Sarawak (SUPS) is currently coordinating information for the preparation of a development proposal paper for the establishment of a Federal Government Common Use Building (BGKP) in Serian. Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai said this follows an assessment conducted

75 per cent of registered Native Court cases resolved: Sikie

A TOTAL of 13,763 cases, or 75 per cent of all registered Native Court cases since 1992 have been settled. Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai said the achievement reflects the dedication and integrity of Native Court presiding officers in handling matters that often involve complex

Proposed under 16 social media ban sparks debate

THE government proposal to ban social media use for Malaysians under 16 from next year has ignited broad public discussion expressing sharply differing views. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the move is being considered to protect minors from online dangers including bullying, scams and child sexual abuse. Sarawak Tribune spoke

Minister calls for gas deals to be finalised by Dec 31

SARAWAK, through Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS), is still refining negotiations with Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) to finalise a commercial agreement by Dec 31, 2025, at the latest. Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi expressed hope that the agreement can be concluded for the benefit of all parties,

Lawas set for stable power with grid connection

RESIDENTS in Lawas will soon enjoy a more stable electricity supply with a direct connection to the Sarawak Main Grid beginning this Dec 4. Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, said the development also means that the district will no longer need to rely on diesel generator

Off-grid project delivers clean water to 2,600 households

THE Sarawak Alternative Water Supply (SAWAS) initiative has provided clean water to approximately 2,600 households in 79 villages and longhouses in rural areas. Utility and Telecommunications Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said this off-grid project aims to deliver clean water to communities who are unable to connect to the main water