GEDONG: The 54.4-hectare paddy transformation project at Lubok Punggor here will serve as a pilot model for scaling up rice production in Sarawak and potentially fulfilling up to 50 per cent of the state’s local rice demand.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said if the project proves successful, it will be replicated in Tanjung Purun in Lundu, and Lingga and Stumbin in Sri Aman.
“Combined, these areas will cover 3,000 hectares. Producing paddy in such a capacity will partially fulfil the state’s rice needs, which I estimate at about 50 per cent of local demand,” he said.
He said this during a press conference after launching the Projek Rakyat Mid Sadong 1 (Lubuk Punggor), Samarahan Division, here yesterday.
The Gedong assemblyman added that the model could later be extended to Limbang, Lawas, Spaoh, Ba Kelalan, and smallholder farms, with a total potential cultivation area of 61,340 hectares.
“With this, Sarawak could achieve self-sufficiency in rice production and possibly export excess rice,” he said.
According to Abang Johari, for the initial phase of the Lubok Punggor project, 54.4 hectares have been developed with an irrigation system costing RM30 million. The project will expand to cover 520 hectares in total.
He said the phased approach involves creating blocks, and once completed, it is expected to yield approximately five tonnes of paddy per hectare.
With an efficient system, this could increase to eight tonnes per hectare, he said.
Abang Johari also highlighted the need to innovate beyond rice cultivation to maximise economic returns.
“Some farmers hesitate to plant paddy due to price controls. However, processed rice can be turned into flour and biscuits, which are not price-controlled. This opens opportunities for downstream industries, adding value to paddy and increasing economic returns,” he said.
The state targets an annual yield of 240,000 tonnes by 2030 through structured planting cycles and enhanced infrastructure.
“With climate unpredictability, achieving self-reliance in rice production is essential,” he added.
