The Bukit Bengunan assemblyman, Datuk Mong Dagang, has urged the federal government to resume the Batang Lupar Granary Area project in Sarawak, which was halted following a change in the federal government in 2018.
Mong said that the first granary area announced by the federal government for Sarawak, spans approximately 5,000 hectares. This area includes Entulang, Seduku, Gran/Stumbin/Tanjong Bijat, Lingga-Banting, and the Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA) Batang Lupar.
“Basic agricultural infrastructure, including a drainage irrigation system and a pump station, has been implemented. However, construction activities ceased after the change in the federal government in 2018, leading to a halt in the much-needed development funding.
“As of now, the total area under cultivation is only 196 hectares. This is what happens when everything is politicised. Ultimately, it’s the ‘rakyat’ (people) who lose,” he said during his debate speech on the 2024 State Budget at the DUN sitting on Friday (Nov 24).
Mong called on the Federal Unity Government to continue with the project, emphasising its potential benefits to the people and the country.
“In the 2024 federal budget, RM400 million was allocated to support food security programs. It is crucial that the unity government allocates sufficient funds for the development of this area,” he added.
Additionally, he suggested that other areas in Bukit Begunan, such as Kubau and Bangkong in Pantu, which were once part of the Agriculture Department’s paddy scheme, could also be developed into paddy production areas.
“Perhaps the state government could consider developing these areas,” he proposed.
The revival of the Batang Lupar Granary Area project could significantly impact Sarawak’s agricultural development and food security.
