KUCHING – The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly has debated the Sarawak Paddy and Rice Board Bill 2026, a landmark initiative designed to transform the state’s paddy industry into a modern, structured and sustainable sector.
The bill proposes the establishment of the Sarawak Paddy and Rice Board, a statutory authority tasked with coordinating and strengthening the industry.
It will oversee land use, irrigation, infrastructure, mechanisation, and management, ensuring that development is carried out in a comprehensive and integrated manner.
Beting Maro assemblyman Dato Razaili Gapor emphasised that declaring government land as paddy development areas would provide a clear legal framework while enabling planned expansion.
He noted that the industry currently operates in fragmented silos, with land, irrigation, seeds, logistics and market access managed separately.
“As a result, even though production targets have been set, we still do not have the implementation machinery that truly functions as a complete industry system,” he said during the debate.
Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, who tabled the bill, explained that the board would act as a corporate body with powers to regulate, issue licences, promote research, and advise the government on policy matters.
It would also establish a dedicated fund to finance projects and operational expenses. He stressed that the legislation complements federal frameworks while strengthening Sarawak’s autonomy in agricultural development.
Pelagus assemblyman Wilson Nyabong Ijang highlighted that the bill addresses vulnerabilities exposed by global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions.
He argued that food security is now tied to sovereignty and stability, and the board would help reduce dependency on external rice supplies. He also pointed to opportunities in agro-processing, packaging, and rural entrepreneurship.
The Meluan assemblyman Dato Rolland Duat Jubin added that the Board would empower farmers by providing subsidies, training, modern technology, and improved irrigation systems.
He said these measures could attract younger generations to agriculture, making paddy farming more profitable and sustainable.
Rolland further noted that rural communities, often constrained by limited economic opportunities, stand to benefit significantly from increased productivity and income.
The bill also allows the state government to declare specific areas as paddy development zones, ensuring disputes over land ownership are avoided. Seven state land areas have already been identified for cultivation.
Overall, the legislation is seen as a long-term investment in Sarawak’s food security and rural prosperity. By integrating modern technology, infrastructure, and coordinated management, the state aims to position itself as a future food-producing powerhouse while uplifting rural communities.
