KUCHING: Sarawak's sago and nipah industries will be expanded and regulated through the new Sago and Nipah Development Board (SNDB) to be set up following the passing of a Bill in the state assembly.

       The SNDB Bill was approved by the legislature on Wednesday (Feb 16).

       State Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi said the board was a new initiative to promote, facilitate and develop sago and nipah to maximise economic returns and increase smallholders’ income.

       As Sarawak was the world's largest exporter of sago flour, he said, it was important for the state to maintain its market position and remain competitive.

       "In this context, the state government is promoting and expanding the development of the crop on a commercial basis due to its potential as a food source through the establishment of the Sago and Nipah Development Board," he said when tabling the Bill.

       At the same time, Rundi said lack of control and regulations in the industry had led to issues such as shortage of sago logs, low productivity, limited usage of sago starch and pollution from milling activities.

       "To address these issues concerning the industry, it is pertinent that a regulatory body is formed to oversee the overall planning and development of the sago industry in Sarawak," he said.

       On nipah, Rundi said the state government aimed to increase the production, consumption and marketing of nipah palm sugar, locally known as "gula apong", for local and overseas markets as initiatives to create economic activities for local farmers.

       He said gula apong was considered a healthy organic substitute for synthetic sugar and used as a sweetener in local delicacies.

       SNDB, he added, would explore the potential of nipah palm for ecosystem restoration and climate change mitigation, sustainable rural livelihoods and renewable energy.

       Sago covers a total estimated planted area of 32,329ha and nipah 111,351ha in Sarawak.