LIMBANG: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) continues to strengthen the development of Sarawak’s agricultural sector as Limbang Division places emphasis on strategic crops and the implementation of Permanent Food Production Park (TKPM) projects to enhance food security and stimulate the local economy.
Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, said for 2026, the Sarawak Government has allocated RM326 million to the ministry while the federal government has provided an additional RM158 million.
According to him, the substantial allocation reflects the government’s continued commitment to empowering the agricultural sector as a key contributor to food security and the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“Under RMK-13, the agricultural sector is growing rapidly throughout Sarawak with significant financial support. We hope this field will continue to progress and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy,” he said when met by the media during a working visit to the Limbang Agricultural Station and the TKPM site today (Feb 12).
He explained that several main crops being prioritised in Sarawak include durian, coconut, pineapple and banana.
Meanwhile in Limbang, specialty crops such as petai and honey lime are also given attention based on soil suitability and encouraging market demand.
He also informed that two main projects are currently being implemented, namely TKPM as well as the Limbang and Lawas Collection, Processing and Packaging Centre (CPPC).
The TKPM project, a federal government initiative that began in 2020 and is expected to be fully completed in 2027, covers a total area of 27 hectares.
Out of this, 26 hectares are allocated for honey jackfruit cultivation involving six participants, with each participant managing approximately five hectares. The project has already begun producing yields.
Dr Abdul Rahman said that the implementation of TKPM provides opportunities for individuals without their own land to venture into commercial agriculture, thereby increasing their income and improving their standard of living.
In addition, the development of Rain Shelter Structures (SPH) for closed-system fertigation farming is also being implemented, involving chilli, melon and high-quality vegetables.
In the same development, the Limbang CPPC is expected to begin operations this year once machinery and equipment are received.
The centre will operate in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, which is responsible for developing farmers as suppliers of agricultural produce to the centre.
He stressed that Limbang and Lawas are not left behind in the development of the agricultural sector; in fact, the northern Sarawak region has been identified as fertile and highly potential for various types of crops.
Apart from commercial crops, paddy cultivation in the Pendam area is also being emphasised as a step to strengthen local food security.
With the implementation of 13MP and strong allocation support, he is confident that the agricultural sector in Limbang and throughout Sarawak will continue to grow, positively impacting public well-being and the state’s economic growth.
