MERADONG assemblyman, Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing is optimistic about the potential of the Chinese Hybrid Rice Cultivation project through technology transfer from Chinese hybrid rice experts and guidance provided by relevant agencies in Sarawak.
He said that Onemas Sdn Bhd, a local paddy company, has effectively conducted a trial pilot of Chinese Hybrid Rice Cultivation in Sungai Padi and the results have been highly promising, with a significant increase in grain production.
“The conventional manual harvesting approach led to substantial wastage, as workers transported harvested paddy to designated threshing areas, resulting in the dropping of over-ripened grains during transportation.
“I urge the Ministry for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Sarawak to intervene and provide full support to ensure that Onemas Sdn Bhd becomes the leading anchor farmer for smallholders as this will ensure we will meet our target of being self-sufficient in rice production in 2027-2030,” he said.
He was debating on the motion of appreciation for the Head of State’s address during the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today (May 8).
On another note, Ding expressed his concern for the supply of clean, treated water in his constituency over the past decades.
“The Proposed Package CR1 (Central Region) for Sarawak Water Supply Grid Programme, a project costing RM91,880,000 was severely delayed due to the Pan Borneo construction, and some outstanding works still need to be done.
“Therefore, I urge the ministry to prioritise the timely completion of the project and expedite the Bayong Treatment Plant Extension Project to ensure residents of Meradong can access uninterrupted, clean water with adequate pressure soon,” he said.
On the same note, he showed gratitude to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for the approval of RM1.08 billion for the gradual replacement of old and ageing pipes.
