Neville Timothy Sanders

INCREASING Sarawak’s self-sufficiency level (SSL) in rice production must be a central priority under the proposed Sarawak Padi and Rice Board Bill, 2026.

Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada stressed that the Bill would provide the necessary framework to expand padi cultivation areas, introduce modern agricultural practices, and promote the use of high-yield seed technology to reduce dependence on imports from Peninsular Malaysia and overseas.

“The Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development could also explore the Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT) model to enhance productivity, irrigation systems, water management, and post-harvest handling, while improving farmers’ incomes,” he said when debating in support of the Sarawak Padi and Rice Board Bill, 2026 during the DUN Sitting today (May 12).

He said the Bill is timely and necessary to strengthen the state’s ability to regulate, support and develop the padi and rice industry, particularly as Sarawak works towards achieving at least 60 per cent SSL.

“Rice is not just a commodity but the staple food of the rakyat and a key component of household stability,” he said, noting that Sarawak’s SSL has declined from 42 per cent in 2020 to about 32 to 34 per cent currently.

Sinang added that Malaysia still relies heavily on rice imports, with national SSL below 60 per cent, exposing the country to supply disruptions and global uncertainties.

On that note, he said the establishment of the Sarawak Padi and Rice Board would help strengthen food security by enabling better monitoring of local reserves, coordinating production, regulating stock levels, and responding more effectively during crises.

“The importance of protecting farmers’ welfare, noting that many padi growers face unstable prices, rising input costs, and weak bargaining power.

“The Board can help guarantee fair padi prices, provide subsidies and incentives, modernise farming methods, and improve irrigation and logistics,” he said.

In addition, Sinang said the Board would play a role in stabilising rice prices for consumers by regulating supply chains, preventing hoarding, monitoring market prices, and ensuring fair distribution.

“The initiative aligns with the spirit of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), allowing Sarawak greater autonomy in managing its food security and agricultural development,” he said.

Published Date: May 12, 2026