KUCHING – The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly has passed the Sarawak Paddy and Rice Board Bill 2026, paving the way for the creation of a statutory body to spearhead the transformation of the state’s agricultural sector into a modern, high-tech industry.
Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine said the new Board would not only regulate paddy cultivation but also expand its scope to include technology development, research, investment, logistics, marketing and commercialisation.
He stressed that the initiative marks a shift from traditional farming practices to a more comprehensive and competitive agro-industry.
Royston highlighted the importance of adopting smart technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), drones, automation and data analytics.
He explained that these tools could enhance productivity, streamline management and ensure efficiency in food production.
“Tellian is confident that this board will be the main catalyst for the transformation of Sarawak’s agricultural sector towards a modern, high-tech agro-industry in line with the digitalisation and new economy agenda being driven by the Sarawak Government at this time,” he said during the debate.
He added that Sarawak has significant potential to become a major food production hub in the region, given its abundant land and water resources.
However, he acknowledged that challenges remain, including low productivity, limited use of modern technology, weak coordination and investment constraints.
The establishment of the Board is expected to address these issues by creating a more systematic and coordinated framework tailored to Sarawak’s unique needs.
Royston also proposed the creation of specialised institutions such as the Sarawak Rice Research Institute to strengthen research in seed development, mechanisation, smart farming and agricultural innovation.
The Bill has been welcomed by other assembly members, who see it as a crucial step towards ensuring food security and reducing reliance on external rice supplies.
The Board will have powers to regulate, issue licences, promote research and advise the government on policy matters. It will also manage funds to support projects and operational expenses.
Royston expressed hope that the Board would encourage greater participation from young people in the agro sector.
By integrating digital technology, AI and modern farming methods, he believes the industry can attract a new generation of farmers and entrepreneurs, making agriculture more profitable and sustainable.
The Sarawak Paddy and Rice Board Bill 2026 is regarded as a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural transformation agenda, aligning with broader efforts to digitalise the economy and strengthen Sarawak’s position as a food-producing powerhouse in the region.
