Sarawak to inject more funds, tap private-smallholder partnerships to expand large-scale paddy farming

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Oct 6: The Sarawak government is prepared to inject more funds to expand modern large-scale paddy cultivation while adopting a collaborative model that brings together private investors and smallholder farmers to ensure the commercial viability of rice production.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the State had already allocated RM1 billion for irrigation infrastructure in identified paddy areas, with further funding to be considered as cultivation areas expand.

“At the moment, the government is doing this, engaging with the private sector. And it seems that there is a positive response,” he said when officiating at the 2nd Sarawak Rice Conference (SARICON II) 2026 at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre today.