THE Sarawak Ministry for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development has been called upon to introduce high-impact commercial value farming in the Murum constituency.
Assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon emphasised the need for modern farming techniques and technology to be applied in a commercial setting, fostering increased revenue from agricultural products.
“Farming stations and input centres need to be swiftly established in rural areas. This infrastructure would ensure farmers receive optimal services and access to quality farming inputs, enabling them to generate substantial income from their produce.”
He was debating the motion of appreciation for the TYT address at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Wednesday (May 18).
Additionally, Kennedy requested collaboration between the ministry and the Land and Survey Department to address land ownership issues arising from the division between the Sarawak government and the Belaga Malaysia Palm Oil Board (MPOB) in Sungai Asap.
The closure of the MPOB-operated station due to land ownership disputes had adversely affected local farmers. “The station has greatly benefitted local farmers in Belaga due to the services offered.”
Expressing concern for the sustainability of the farmers, Kennedy urged the Land and Survey Department to find resolutions that would prevent the closure of the Belaga MPOB station in Sungai Asap.
Furthermore, he stressed the need for improved digital infrastructure in rural areas to ensure that communities are not left behind in the digital economy transformation, emphasising the importance of inclusive development.
