Saratok Residents Encourage To Revive Padi Cultivation, Harnessing Potential Of Ilas & Tabau
SARATOK: Residents in the Saratok area are encouraged to return to padi cultivation, as areas such as Ilas and Tabau hold significant potential for wet padi development and could serve as a new source of income for the local community.
Krian Assemblyman Friday Belik said the agricultural sector, particularly padi farming, must be prioritised once again in line with the government’s efforts to bolster food security and enhance the socio-economic status of the people.
“The Sarawak Government continues to strive toward improving the people’s socio-economy by identifying new revenue streams, including through the commodity and agricultural sectors.
“This is why I am encouraging the people of Saratok to return to padi farming, as we possess high-potential areas such as Ilas and Tabau,” he said.
He made these remarks during his speech at the Malam Mantar Gawai Dayak and Pekit Kumang Gawai Saratok 2026 dinner at the SJK(C) Min Syn Hall here on Saturday.
In a related development, Friday informed that the Sarawak Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development (M-FICORD) is currently conducting research into padi seed varieties that have the potential to be harvested twice a year.
Aside from agriculture, he called upon the community to avoid becoming overly preoccupied with politics, urging them instead to strengthen ties with neighbours, family members, and longhouse communities to maintain unity and harmony.
He also encouraged the public to remain open-minded and foster good relations with other ethnic groups to nurture understanding within the state’s multi-racial society.
In the same address, Friday commended the collaboration between SDNU and SIDS Saratok for successfully organising the event, which serves to unite the Dayak community through Gawai celebrations.
He noted that the Gawai celebration is not only a symbol of gratitude for a bountiful harvest and prosperity but also reflects the progress of the Dayak community as they continue to evolve with the times.
The event featured the Pekit Kumang Saratok 2026 pageant, showcasing contestants skilled in traditional arts and crafts, including weaving and knitting.
In the competition, Olivia was crowned Kumang Gawai Saratok 2026, taking home a cash prize of RM5,000.
Florita emerged as the runner-up, earning the title of “Lulong” and a cash prize of RM4,000, while Anita secured third place as “Selinggar Matahari” with a prize of RM3,000.
For the Creative Video category, Tracy bagged a cash prize of RM250, while the Best Ngepan Attire award was won by Michelle.-UKASnews
