SARIKEI: Native Customary Rights (NCR) land should be viewed as an economic asset capable of generating sustained income, rather than property to be sold to meet short-term needs.

Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Datuk Len Talif Salleh, said land ownership opens the way for the people to build a stronger future through agricultural activities and land development.

He said proceeds from land sales only offer temporary benefit, whereas land that is well managed and cultivated can become a lasting source of income for a family.

"Every plot of land received must be safeguarded, as its value will continue to rise when it is put to productive use by the owners themselves," he said.

He was speaking at the Section 18 Sarawak Land Code Land Title Presentation Ceremony for the Ulu Sarikei area, held at the Sarawak Government Administrative Centre, Sarikei Division, on Friday.

Datuk Len Talif also noted that the government provides various forms of financial assistance, incentives and technical advisory services to encourage the development of NCR land.

He explained that these efforts are in line with the Sarawak Government's policy to strengthen local food production and reduce dependence on external supplies.

He added that crops such as paddy, corn and other food commodities have great potential to boost the income of rural residents if cultivated in a planned manner.

Meanwhile, he said the use of machinery and modern technology allows agricultural work to be carried out more efficiently, thereby overcoming labour constraints and age-related factors.

He expressed hope that the more than 300 land lots presented at the ceremony would serve as a catalyst for family economic development and remain a valuable legacy for future generations. -UKASnews