KUCHING: The Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) continues to play a significant role in driving Sarawak’s economic development, particularly through the development of Native Customary Rights (NCR) land and agri-park initiatives that directly impact the well-being of the people.
Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, said that LCDA is not only involved in the agricultural sector through the management of its own estates, but also acts as a managing agent in the development of NCR land to safeguard the interests of landowners.
According to him, this approach enables previously idle land to be developed productively through a new NCR development model in collaboration with the private sector.
“This effort creates opportunities for landowners to earn dividends, while also generating employment and stimulating economic activity within local communities,” he said.
He was speaking to the media after attending the LCDA 2026 Aidilfitri gathering at the CATS FM Multipurpose Hall on Saturday.
Meanwhile, he also noted that LCDA has now been entrusted with developing several areas as agri-parks equipped with comprehensive facilities to attract investors and entrepreneurs.
He explained that the more holistic agri-park concept not only provides opportunities for individuals and companies to engage in agricultural activities such as vegetable cultivation, but also encourages the development of downstream activities.
“For instance, LCDA is spearheading the cultivation of pineapples and coconuts, while also focusing on marketing and processing aspects to enhance the value-added of agricultural produce,” he elaborated.
He added that more agri-park projects will be developed in the future to expand private sector participation and strengthen the value chain of the state’s agricultural industry.
This initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to ensuring inclusive and sustainable economic development, while improving the standard of living of rural communities in Sarawak.
Also present at the event were Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Regional Development Agency Coordination, Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Deputy Minister for Community Wellbeing Development, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam and General Manager, Datu Sr Zaidi Mahdi. -UKASnews
Prepared by: Ezzah Syafiqah
Photo: Ezzah Syafiqah
Translator: Uilson Ng
