NEARLY RM626 million have been disbursed to Native Customary Rights (NCR) landowners for developing their lands under the Joint Venture Model.
Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, said under the initiative, approximately 91,612 hectares of NCR lands had been developed through 46 projects involving 17,885 registered participants as of 30 April 2025.
“The total amount of RM626 million has been disbursed to participants in the form of upfront payments, annual incentives, and dividends,” he said during his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session today (May 27).
Dr Rundi also highlighted the crucial role of the Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA) in advancing native land development through commercial oil palm cultivation.
As of 31 March 2025, SALCRA has developed 54,595 hectares across 20 estates, involving more than 21,000 participants from 460 villages and longhouses.
Additionally, SALCRA secured a RM20 million Federal loan this year to support the replanting of ageing oil palm trees in the Saratok, Sri Aman, Serian, and Bau-Lundu regions.
“These plantations have reached the end of their 25-year productive cycle.
“Replanting is vital to ensure continued income for landowners and to maintain a steady supply of raw materials for palm oil mills,” he said.
Dr Rundi also said SALCRA plans to expand their reach into new areas as part of the Sarawak Government’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“In line with our Social Inclusivity pillar, SALCRA will extend its development initiatives to Sarikei and Sibu,” he said.
“The proposed expansion will cover around 6,400 hectares and is expected to benefit an estimated 1,600 new participants.
“The development will be carried out in phases with a projected cost of RM150 million.
“Additionally, a Federal loan of RM10 million has been approved in 2025 to support new oil palm planting in Ulu Sungai Wak, Sarikei. The project will cover approximately 1,500 hectares,” he said.
