Premier: Baram paddy pilot shows harvest can be produced in just three months using new technology

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, April 12: A paddy cultivation pilot project in Baram has demonstrated that harvests can be produced in just three months using new agricultural technology, marking a significant breakthrough for Sarawak’s food security agenda.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the trial, conducted in collaboration with an entrepreneur and the Department of Agriculture in Baram, involved testing a new green paddy seed variety.

“It has only been planted for about one week, as shown in the photo, but this is paddy that can be produced in just three months. The figures are supported by images.

“If you don’t believe it, you can go to Kuala Baram. This is using technology,” he said during his speech at the DUN Lingga Economic Forum 2026 held at the Sri Aman Civic Centre today, broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) via Facebook.

Abang Johari said the pilot project demonstrates the potential of technology-driven agriculture to significantly improve rice production efficiency and strengthen the State’s food supply.

He said Sarawak is now looking to expand high-tech paddy cultivation to other suitable areas, including Lingga, located between Kuching and Sri Aman.

He noted that scaling up production will depend on the willingness of farmers and stakeholders to adopt modern agricultural practices.

“I saw the rice that has already been packed earlier — now it is up to us whether we want it or not. If we want to increase yield, we must use the latest technology,” he added.

The Premier also said the Sarawak Cabinet has allocated substantial funding to boost paddy production, stressing the importance of reducing reliance on imported rice amid global uncertainties.

“We should not rely on others. We depend on Thailand, but Thailand is facing climate issues and is no longer exporting rice. Thailand is also working with Cambodia, but both countries are facing their own challenges. So where are we going to get our rice?” he said.

He added that recent developments in neighbouring Sambas, Indonesia, where rice production has increased near the Sarawak border, further highlight the urgency for Sarawak to strengthen its own production capacity.

As such, Abang Johari said Sarawak must explore new approaches to paddy cultivation, with farmers encouraged to embrace technology-driven methods to ensure long-term food security.

Also present were Sarawak Minister of Utilities and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor, and Anak Perantau Simanggang chairman Datu Kameri Affandi. — DayakDaily

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