KUCHING: Two key justifications underpinning efforts to strengthen Sarawak’s paddy and rice sector, namely the state’s unique geographical conditions and the need to enhance food security and self-sufficiency.
Speaking during the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting on Tuesday, Machan Assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong said Sarawak’s vast land area, covering more than 124,000 square kilometres, presents significant logistical challenges in delivering rice and essential supplies, particularly to rural, remote and riverine communities.
“Many of our people live in rural areas, remote settlements and riverine communities.
“Delivering rice and supplies to these areas are not always an easy task,” he said.
He noted that high transportation costs and connectivity issues in certain areas further complicate distribution efforts, making Sarawak’s situation markedly different from that of Peninsular Malaysia.
Given these unique conditions, he stressed that existing federal mechanisms alone may not be sufficient to address the state’s specific needs, thus necessitating a more locally responsive framework.
The Machan Assemblyman further emphasised that another key justification lies in the need to strengthen Sarawak’s food security and improve its self-sufficiency level, as the state remains heavily dependent on imported rice.
He pointed out that reliance on external supply exposes Sarawak to vulnerabilities such as global disruptions, price volatility and supply shortages, underscoring the importance of taking proactive steps to increase local production and stabilise supply.
In this regard, he said strengthening local capacity would enable better management of production, stockpiling and supply systems to ensure greater resilience and preparedness in the face of future uncertainties. -UKASnews
