BETONG – Fourteen river fishermen from the Bukit Saban constituency have each received RM20,000 worth of equipment assistance under the Betong Divisional Development Agency (BDDA) programme, aimed at boosting productivity and improving livelihoods.
The aid, distributed at the Spaoh Sub-District Agriculture Office on Monday, was presented by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the Assemblyman for Bukit Saban.
He explained that the initiative is part of the state’s rural economic development strategy to support fishermen, smallholders, and livestock farmers.
According to Uggah, the assistance includes modern boats, sepit engines, and advanced fishing gear, enabling fishermen to increase their catch and income.
“The purpose of this assistance is to encourage fishermen to use better and more modern equipment. We hope they can increase their fishing yield and income,” he said.
He also encouraged recipients to diversify their ventures by exploring aquaculture projects such as fish and prawn farming, which could open up new income streams.
Highlighting the Bebuling Agropark project, Uggah noted that partnerships with local companies would create opportunities for fishermen and farmers to participate in the wider production chain.
The Deputy Premier further revealed that a prawn farming initiative is being developed to tap into export markets, which could significantly raise the earnings of local communities involved in aquaculture and product marketing.
Uggah reminded recipients that government support must be matched with hard work. “The government can provide funds, boats and engines, but if they do not go down to the water, the fish will not go up to land. They must work hard regardless of rain or heat,” he said, urging fishermen to remain active and committed.
Following the distribution, Uggah held a dialogue session with the beneficiaries to gather feedback and discuss strategies for strengthening the fishing community’s economy in Bukit Saban.
Also present at the event were Roseline Mapong Sabai, Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Abang Mohamed Abang Turkey, BDDA Special Administrative Officer, Leo Toni, Betong Divisional Agriculture Officer, and Denny Lim, Spaoh Sub-District Administrative Officer.
The BDDA programme is part of Sarawak’s broader vision to uplift rural communities by providing resources, training, and opportunities that ensure long-term economic sustainability.
