TATAU: Oil palm remains a primary catalyst for improving the living standards of rural communities as the commodity's price stays stable and is expected to rise further, influenced by global geopolitical developments, particularly in the Middle East.
Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai said that besides oil palm, coffee — specifically the Liberica variety — holds great potential to penetrate the global market as a high-demand premium product.
According to him, both sectors will continue to receive support through the Mid Rajang Regional Development Agency (MiRRDA) initiatives to boost the income of rural residents.
“The oil palm industry is not only a main source of income but also produces eco-friendly biodiesel and contributes to the development of renewable energy,” he said during the launch of the Agriculture Community Outreach Programme (AgriCOP) at Rumah Lenny Diana, Rantau Tajak, Jalan Samarakan, on Friday.
Oil palm planting assistance will focus on those who have yet to cultivate the commodity, opening doors for new income streams and economic elevation.
The community is encouraged to leverage existing skills, particularly in making traditional snacks, to expand into the Small and Medium Industry (SMI) sector.
Products like chili sauce and cakes have high potential for commercialisation, adding value to agricultural yields.
Representing the Director of Agriculture Sarawak was Senior Assistant Director Peter Jarit whom noted that four AgriCOP programmes have been held in N60 Kakus constituency, with the Tatau session being the first of its kind in the area.
The programme featured courses on chili processing and oil palm management to expose participants to effective farming techniques and yield optimisation.
The event was also attended by Bintulu Division Agriculture Officer Jackson Nanta Bernabas Baie and Tatau District Office Administrative Officer Raden Azamry Raden Perhan. -UKASnews
