DALAT: Sarawak government is taking another major step in advancing its sago industry with the allocation of RM39 million for the construction of the Sarawak Sago and Nipah Development Board (SNDB) Complex in Dalat.
Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, said the new complex would serve as a comprehensive hub showcasing the entire sago industry ecosystem, while highlighting the cultural heritage closely linked to the crop.
“This complex will showcase the entire sago industry value chain, including the cultural aspects closely associated with the crop, while also serving as a more comprehensive reference centre in the region.
“Therefore, it needs to be more advanced and holistic, in line with Sarawak’s position as the leading producer of sago and a key reference centre for the industry,” she said.
She said this when officiating at the closing ceremony of the Balau Dalat Carnival 2026 at the Dalat Waterfront here today (June 21).
Fatimah, who is also Dalat assemblywoman, said SNDB continues to play an important role in assisting smallholders to address land ownership issues by facilitating applications with the Land and Survey Department.
She revealed that 110 land-related applications have been submitted so far, with 38 receiving approval. Of these, 36 land titles have already been handed over to successful applicants, while two are pending delivery.
“A total of 58 applications are still being processed, and this effort is important to ensure that the development of the sago industry can be carried out in a more structured manner and continue to benefit smallholders,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Fatimah announced that the Sarawak government has also approved the Dalat Boutique Hotel project, which will be managed by a state government-linked company to support the growth of the local tourism industry.
The Balau Dalat Carnival 2026 featured a range of activities, including cultural performances, exhibitions of sago-based products, government agency showcases, traditional sports competitions and various community programmes, drawing strong participation from the public, particularly young people.
