SARAWAK continues to lead Malaysia with 1.7 million hectares of oil palm plantations and higher export value recorded between January and September 2025.
Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development (M-FICORD) Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the sector’s strong performance reflects growing global demand and the state’s continued commitment to sustainable development.
“As of September 2025, 1.5 million hectares or 93 per cent of Sarawak’s oil palm area are MSPO-certified, with certification for the remaining areas underway.
“A Specific Guideline for New Oil Palm Planting on Native Customary Rights (NCR) Land in Sarawak was introduced to meet MSPO 2.0 standards, confirming NCR land eligibility for certification,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech during the DUN Sitting today.
“It provides clear instructions to help smallholders meet legal and environmental requirements while improving market access for NCR-produced palm oil.
“To sustain productivity, SALCRA is opening new NCR development areas in Sarikei and Sibu covering 6,400 hectares to be developed in phases.
“For 2025, the federal government approved a revised RM4.0 million loan for new plantings in Ulu Sungai Wak, Sarikei, involving 1,500 hectares under the first phase, with over 200 hectares already planted as of October 2025. The project is expected to benefit about 1,600 participants when completed.”
Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA) also continues its structured replanting programme for estates reaching the end of their economic cycle.
“Of the approved RM24 million federal loan, RM21 million has been received to support replanting efforts in Saratok, Sri Aman, Serian and Bau-Lundu. As of Oct 30, 2025, 1,341 hectares have been replanted out of the 1,700-hectare target, with progress on schedule,” Dr Rundi said.
