KUCHING: Sarawak is pushing for a major leap in its coffee sector by integrating modern agricultural science into farming systems, an approach the state believes will drive higher yields, stronger crop resilience and global recognition for its Liberica coffee.
Department of Agriculture (DoA) Sarawak director Dominic Chunggat said the adoption of advanced technologies and improved farming practices is now central to Sarawak’s coffee development strategy, as the state positions itself for a competitive role in the global specialty market.
“Our ambition is to aggressively integrate modern agricultural science into our farming systems.
“By adopting advanced technologies and exploring new coffee varieties, we aim to enhance the resilience, yield and diversity of our industry.
“We anticipate a future where Sarawak is recognised globally as a producer of premium Liberica coffee,” he said when officiating the Borneo Coffee Symposium 2025 at the Old Court House here.
Dominic was representing Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom at the event.
Chunggat also highlighted Kuching’s blend of tradition and modernity, noting that the state’s coffee culture, rooted in kopitiam heritage, is now entering a new chapter.
“With improved farming techniques, better processing systems and greater value chain transparency, we are working to ensure Sarawak coffee stands proudly on the world stage.
“It is not about producing more, but producing better,” he said.
Outlining the state’s refined coffee development strategy, he said the DoA remains steadfast in supporting the industry through three key directives.
“Firstly, coffee cultivation to be carried out in clusters or groups for efficient resource management.
“Second, farmers to be trained as specialists to produce premium-quality beans, and third, agricultural assistance to be extended only to existing coffee growers for rehabilitation.
“These efforts will be strengthened through high-quality seedlings, access to essential fertilisers, modern processing machinery, and comprehensive agronomic training,” he said.
Chunggat emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships, acknowledging DoA’s long-standing collaboration with Earthlings Coffee in professional training, post-harvest improvements and elevating production standards among indigenous communities.
“Our years of collaboration have been instrumental in elevating the standards of local production,” he said.
He expressed confidence that Sarawak is on the right trajectory to be recognised globally as a producer of premium Liberica coffee.
“We anticipate a future where Sarawak’s identity and spirit are represented through our specialty Liberica,” he said.
Chunggat noted that the return of the international symposium, last held in 2019, symbolises a renewed commitment to strengthening Sarawak’s coffee movement.
“Today we are not simply continuing an event; we are renewing a commitment and celebrating a community that has grown more resilient with each passing year,” he said.
