Sarawak must adopt more effective strategies to tackle climate change, environmental degradation and growing challenges facing the agriculture and food sectors, according to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
He said the state is increasingly feeling the impact of global climate change, even as Sarawak continues to record steady progress in economic growth and industrial development.
“We must be better prepared to deal with climate change, environmental degradation and challenges affecting our agricultural sector.
“These are critical issues that must be addressed while we continue advancing in industrial and economic development,” he said during the state-level Maal Hijrah celebration at Miri Stadium on Wednesday.
Abang Johari noted that although Sarawak continues to enjoy racial harmony and economic progress, emerging long-term challenges require greater attention from policymakers and the public.
“As we celebrate Maal Hijrah and reflect on the strong multiracial harmony that exists in Sarawak, we must also remain aware of the challenges that lie ahead,” he said.
He added that the state government is actively formulating policies aimed at strengthening food security and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.
One of the latest measures introduced was the enactment of a new law on May 11 to regulate land use for rice cultivation, a move aimed at boosting food security amid rising food import costs.
The Sarawak Padi and Rice Board Bill 2026, tabled by Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom, provides for the establishment of a dedicated regulatory board to oversee rice production and cultivation activities across the state.
Under the initiative, seven major areas in Sarawak are expected to be developed into designated rice cultivation zones.
The move comes as Sarawak continues to spend billions of ringgit annually on imported food products, including rice, vegetables, livestock and animal feed.
Rising global supply chain pressures and geopolitical tensions have also contributed to increasing food costs.
Last year alone, Sarawak imported more than RM7.62 billion worth of food products, representing an increase of approximately RM3 billion compared to the previous year.
Authorities have acknowledged that the state still faces challenges in producing sufficient food domestically and remains heavily dependent on imports to meet growing demand.
Abang Johari said strengthening local food production will be crucial in reducing reliance on imported supplies while enhancing the state’s resilience against future global disruptions.
