DARO: Sarawak is exploring the cultivation of perennial rice, a variety that only needs to be planted once but can be harvested repeatedly over several years, as part of efforts to strengthen food security, improve farm productivity and raise rural incomes through agricultural innovation.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the research is being undertaken in collaboration with universities in Yunnan, China, with the aim of determining whether the crop can be successfully adapted to Sarawak’s soil and climate conditions.
Unlike conventional padi, he said perennial rice eliminates the need for farmers to replant after every harvest, significantly reducing production costs while increasing productivity.
“If we can successfully adapt this technology to Sarawak, it will greatly benefit our farmers because they will no longer have to replant rice every planting season.
“This means lower production costs, higher productivity and ultimately better incomes for our farming communities,” he said during a press conference after a visit to ‘Rumah Contoh Model Saphire LCDA Tapak Skim Pembesaran Kampung (SPK) Lemang Pek, Kampung Tengah Kampung Pangtray Fasa 1’ today.
As part of the initiative, Abang Johari said the state government is also identifying suitable pilot sites across central Sarawak for future cultivation.
At the same time, studies are being carried out on the productive use of idle land and former shifting cultivation areas for high-value crops, including bamboo.
He said the initiatives form part of the state’s broader strategy to diversify rural economic activities through science, technology and research-based agriculture.
“We want to create new sources of income for rural communities by introducing new technologies and innovative agricultural practices,” he added.
The Premier revealed that he had personally sampled the perennial rice and was impressed by both its taste and nutritional qualities.
He said the rice has a lower glycaemic index (GI) compared to conventional rice, making it a healthier option, particularly for individuals with diabetes and those seeking healthier dietary choices.
“It tastes very good and is also very easy to cook. The recommended ratio is simply one-part rice to one-part water, and as long as the water is measured correctly, the rice cooks perfectly,” he added.
At the same time, Abang Johari stressed that wider cultivation would only proceed after ongoing research confirms the crop’s suitability for Sarawak’s environmental conditions.
He said the state’s agricultural transformation is increasingly being driven by scientific research and innovation rather than conventional farming methods alone.
“Agriculture today is no longer just about traditional farming. It is about combining science, research and technology to improve productivity, increase farmers’ incomes and ensure long-term food security,” he concluded.
