Malaysia : Over 4,000 hectares in Limbang identified for modern rice cultivation
Sarawak’s Ministry of Food Industry has identified 11 areas in Limbang Division, totaling 4,264 hectares, for modern rice cultivation. Six sites are in Limbang District and five in Lawas. Two areas—Kampung Pandam (809 ha) and Sundar (300 ha)—are already gazetted. LiDAR surveys and infrastructure development are underway, with tenders and funding proposals in progress.
THE Ministry Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development has identified 11 areas with a total area of 4,264 hectares that has the potential for modern and commercial rice cultivation in Limbang Division.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Martin Ben said that of the 11 areas, six areas with a total area of 2,734 hectares are located in Limbang District and five areas with a total area of 1,530 hectares are located in Lawas District.
“There are two areas in Limbang and Lawas Districts that have been gazetted as rice cultivation areas, namely Kampung Pandam Area, Limbang with an area of 809 hectares; and Sundar area, Lawas with an area of 300 hectares,” he said.
He said this during the question-and-answer session at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today (May 20).
Earlier, Datuk Paulus Palu Gumbang (GPS-Batu Danau) had queried on the rice cultivation project in Limbang.
Martin added for the gazetted area in Kampung Pandam, the Sarawak Irrigation and Drainage Department is in the process of preparing tender documents for the appointment of a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) survey consultant.
“The survey work is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
“Meanwhile, for the native customary rights (NCR) area, the Ministry has proposed a budget to the state and federal governments for infrastructure development under the 13th Malaysia Plan,” he said.
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Source : Sarawak Tribune
