As of March 2025, Sarawak is embarking on a pivotal shift in its food production and export ambitions.
With its abundant natural resources and unique biodiversity, the state is actively enhancing its agriculture, aquaculture, and fruit industries to solidify its role as a major food exporter by 2030.
Agriculture: Modernisation and Diversification
Sarawak’s agriculture industry has undergone remarkable changes, prioritising modernisation and commercialisation to drive productivity and sustainability.
By 2022, the industry contributed 10.54% to the state’s GDP, amounting to RM14.6 billion.
A key factor in this growth was crude palm oil production, which rose from 3.9 million tonnes in 2001 to 4.0 million tonnes in 2022.
Recognizing the importance of self-reliance in food production and enhanced food security, the state government has placed a strong emphasis on agricultural R&D.
The Right Honourable, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak highlighted the critical role of research and development (R&D) in enhancing food quality, stating, “As a food producer, we strongly emphasize R&D on rice and other products like prawns… We need more experts in food production and downstream activities.”
To address its heavy reliance on imported rice, the government has dedicated RM50 million to the Tanjung Purun Paddy Scheme.
The initiative aims to enhance local rice production, addressing the fact that Sarawak currently produces just 32% of its rice requirements, resulting in over 153,000 metric tonnes of imports each year.
The initiative focuses on upgrading infrastructure, implementing advanced farming practices, and introducing high-yield rice varieties to meet the state’s 100% self-sufficiency target.
Aquaculture and Fisheries: Harnessing Marine Potential
Fisheries and aquaculture have been identified as essential industries for driving economic progress.
The Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Sarawak (MFICORD) has outlined a bold vision to achieve RM 1 billion in export revenue from these industries by 2030, emphasizing shrimp farming as a key focus.
Between 2018 and 2022, the production of fisheries products, including shrimp, grew slightly, leading to an increase in export value from RM 238 million to RM 239 million.
To meet its goals, the state aims to increase aquaculture land from 1,200 hectares to 7,000 hectares.
Four areas in Sarawak have been designated as Aquaculture Industrial Zones (AIZs), with the Batang Ai AIZ emerging as a leading hub for freshwater fish production, contributing 60% (approximately 953.89 metric tonnes) of the state’s tilapia supply.
Meanwhile, the Loba Stoh Aquaculture Park in Rambungan AIZ is being developed as Sarawak’s shrimp production centre, supported by a RM52 million investment in infrastructure, with operations scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025.
Fruit Cultivation: Tapping into Tropical Diversity
Sarawak’s tropical climate and rich, fertile soil create optimal conditions for cultivating a wide variety of fruits.
Although detailed export statistics are scarce, the state is focusing on high-value crops such as durians, pineapples, and bananas, which are highly sought after in markets like China and other parts of Asia.
Strategies to improve agricultural practices, post-harvest processes, and marketing are being implemented to support the growth of fruit exports.
According to the Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Minister Datuk Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, durian, coconut, pineapple, and banana have been recognized by the ministry as the four key crops with significant export potential.
In 2020, durian trade globally hit USD 3 billion, and the coconut market size was recorded at USD 12.6 billion.
Demand for pineapples grew significantly across China, Europe, and North America, with China importing USD 172 million worth.
Furthermore, global banana exports reached unprecedented levels, with an estimated 2.2 million tonnes exported in 2020.
Government Initiatives and Future Outlook
Recognising the importance of agriculture and fisheries, the Sarawak government has actively implemented policies and allocated resources to drive growth in these industries.
The 2025 budget prioritised food security and agricultural development, with The Right Honourable, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari reaffirming the need for transformation, stating, “We must transform our agriculture industry to secure our food supply for future generations.”
In a bid to support small farmers, the state has allocated RM30.4 million for training programs, mechanization efforts, and financial assistance.
The state remains dedicated to uplifting rural farmers through the promotion of commercial agriculture and expanded market opportunities.
Through strategic planning in agriculture, aquaculture, and fruit cultivation, Sarawak is advancing toward its ambition of becoming a net food exporter by 2030.
Backed by significant investments, robust policies, and a commitment to sustainability, the state is set to strengthen its role in global food markets while safeguarding local food security.
References:
- https://mficord.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/1205
- https://www.theborneopost.com/2023/07/01/premier-swak-strongly-emphasises-food-production-agriculture-rd-to-produce-quality-food/
- https://www.tvsarawak.my/2024/11/11/sarawaks-agriculture-sector-gets-a-boost-with-focus-on-food-security
- https://www.theborneopost.com/2023/11/29/rm1-bln-export-earnings-2030-target-set-for-swaks-fisheries/
- https://mficord.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/1174
- https://premierdept.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/9393/UKAS#:~:text=RM6%20million%20will%20be%20allocated,Capacity%2Dbuilding%20programs%20for%20farmers
- https://dayakdaily.com/sarawak-to-focus-on-durian-coconut-pineapple-banana-crops-due-to-rising-global-demand/
- https://dayakdaily.com/sarawak-to-focus-on-durian-coconut-pineapple-banana-crops-due-to-rising-global-demand/
- https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/11/11/state-budget-2025-sarawak-allocates-rm30-4-mln-to-boost-agricultural-devt-support-farmers/
