DARO: Pulau Bruit holds immense potential to become a key hub for supplying seafood, fruits and rice to central Sarawak.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said with the impending completion of the Batang Paloh and Batang Lasa bridges, the transportation of seafood and agricultural produce will soon be more efficient.
He said this will ensure the goods reach markets and dining tables across Sarawak with greater ease.
“The island’s fishermen association has 1,587 registered members, while 1,004 farmers and 804 paddy growers are working in the area.
“Furthermore, there are several ongoing projects led by the Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID) aimed at improving agricultural infrastructure on Pulau Bruit.
“These include the upgrading of the drainage system and levee in the Kampung Tekajong agricultural area, covering 676 hectares at a cost of RM11.5 million. Another project involves upgrading the drainage system in Kampung Bruit, covering 670 hectares at a cost of RM10.5 million. Both areas are seen as promising for paddy cultivation.
“Pulau Bruit, with its strategic location, also has the potential to become a vital food supply hub for central Sarawak,” he said during the opening ceremony of Pesta Pulau Bruit 2024 at the Rural Growth Centre Commercial Site in Semop here on Saturday (Sept 14).
Saidol, who is Semop assemblyman, also suggested the establishment of a training and research centre for agriculture and livestock in the Central Zone, potentially in Tanjung Manis, where many underutilised facilities could be repurposed for this purpose.
“With the Premier’s budget expected to be larger than ever, I am hopeful it will bring positive news, particularly for irrigation upgrades, quality seeds, and subsidies for costly fertilisers and pesticides,” he added.
Also in attendance were Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali; the Premier’s Chief Political Secretary Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman; Tanjung Manis MP Yusuf Abdul Wahab; Igan MP Ahmad Johnie Samawi; and Daro Assemblyman Safiee Ahmad.
