Sarawak admires Singapore’s vertical farming, aiming to attract youth to agriculture and increase food security. Plans include modern techniques and rice production.

Sarawak Eyes Singapore’s Vertical Farming Model to Boost Modern Agriculture and Rice Production Goals

During a recent courtesy call, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah of Sarawak expressed admiration for Singapore’s vertical farming techniques, highlighting it as a model of modern agriculture that Sarawak could emulate. This encounter underscores a growing interest in technological approaches to farming, aimed at attracting younger generations to agriculture and boosting food production within the region.

Innovative Farming on the Rise

Uggah emphasized the importance of leveraging modern technology to revolutionize the agricultural sector, making it more appealing to the educated youth in urban areas. The introduction of vertical farming in Sarawak is seen as a pivotal move towards enhancing food security and making agriculture a viable and attractive career for the younger population. By adopting such innovative methods, Sarawak aims to increase its self-sufficiency in food production, with a particular focus on rice.

Strategic Plans for Rice Production

The Sarawak government, through its Ministry of Food Industries, Commodities, and Regional Development, has set ambitious targets to achieve a 60 per cent self-sufficiency level in rice production by 2030. The strategy involves the adoption of technology-driven solutions such as drone technology for the spraying of fertilisers and pesticides and the monitoring of crops. Additionally, the use of high-yielding hybrid seeds and mechanical harvesters is expected to significantly boost rice yields, thereby increasing farmers’ incomes.

Addressing Income Disparity

Despite Sarawak’s status as a high-income state, Uggah acknowledges the existence of income disparities, with a segment of the population still earning low wages. By focusing on increasing rice production and introducing modern farming techniques, the government aims to elevate the living standards of these individuals. This approach not only addresses food security concerns but also contributes to narrowing the income gap within the state.

The collaboration and exchange of ideas between Sarawak and Singapore symbolize a step forward in the pursuit of agricultural innovation and sustainability. As these initiatives take root, the potential for a transformed agricultural landscape in Sarawak holds promise for both the economy and the well-being of its populace.

Published Date: March 5, 2024