KUCHING – The transformation of Tanjung Purun into a modern rice production hub has gained momentum, with compensation for the first phase of land re-acquisition completed last month. Local leaders are now calling for supporting infrastructure to ensure the project’s long-term success.
Tanjung Datu Assemblyman Azizul Annuar Pehin Sri Adenan emphasised that the construction of agricultural roads and farm roads is crucial to sustain farming activities in the area.
He explained that while the government’s modernisation efforts in rice cultivation are showing promising results, access to farms remains limited.
“The community in my constituency is demanding more agricultural roads to open up access to their farms and agricultural areas,” Azizul said during the debate on the Supply Bill (2026) at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
He added that the development of Tanjung Purun, supported by better road networks, would not only strengthen rice production but also encourage youth participation in agriculture.
According to him, the rice cultivation ecosystem could provide new employment opportunities and revitalise interest among younger generations in farming.
Azizul also welcomed the clarification from the Sarawak Ministry of Utilities and Telecommunications (MUTS) regarding plans to expand electricity connections to Lundu and Sematan.
He noted that residents in Tanjung Datu frequently face power disruptions, which affect both households and businesses.
He urged Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) to consider the broader needs of the area, including its growing tourism industry, when planning electricity supply improvements.
“I am also open to working with SEB in formulating a power generation plan in the Lundu District,” he said.
The assemblyman’s remarks reflect wider concerns about rural infrastructure in Sarawak, where communities often struggle with limited access to reliable transport and utilities.
Analysts have pointed out that farm roads are essential for reducing costs, improving logistics, and ensuring farmers can bring produce to markets efficiently.
The Sarawak Budget 2026, themed “Empowering People, Advancing Prosperity, Building a Resilient Future”, has prioritised rural development projects, including transport and energy.
With rice cultivation identified as a strategic sector, stakeholders believe that investments in infrastructure will be key to unlocking the full potential of Tanjung Purun as a modern agricultural centre.
Residents in Tanjung Datu remain hopeful that the government’s pledges will translate into tangible improvements, ensuring that farming communities benefit from better connectivity and more reliable electricity supply.
