Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg

SARIKEI (Sept 1): The Sarawak government’s decision to establish the Rajang Delta Development Agency (Radda) is a strategic move to drive inclusive and well-planned growth across the Rajang Delta region, particularly in Sarikei, Tanjung Manis, and parts of Mukah, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

“The creation of Radda would allow initiatives to be implemented more effectively, benefiting local communities and unlocking the region’s full potential.

“With Radda, we can drive development in a more structured and impactful manner. This will not only strengthen the region’s competitiveness but also create new job opportunities, raise the standard of living, and position the Rajang Delta as a key economic hub for Sarawak,” he said during the state-level National Day celebration in Sarikei yesterday.

Abang Johari highlighted the Sarawak’s ambitious projects in Tanjung Manis, including a pioneer paddy cultivation project involving private sector partners and local landowners.

“Covering 260 acres, the initiative has achieved two harvests a year with an average yield of four tonnes per hectare, paving the way for Sarawak to become a major rice producer by 2030,” he said.

Abang Johari said Tanjung Manis is also being developed as a Halal Hub, supported by comprehensive infrastructure such as an airport, ports including a dedicated deep-sea fishing port and logistics facilities.

“This positions the area as a future leader in halal food processing for both domestic and international markets,” he said.

According to the Premier, the Tanjung Manis Economic Growth Area (T-MEGA) master plan integrates agriculture, logistics, tourism, and green technology industries.

“Once fully operational, this synergy is expected to bring widespread benefits to Sarikei and surrounding areas, driving job creation, boosting economic activities, and improving local living standards,” he said.

He added Sarikei’s reputation as a producer of pineapples, black pepper, and limes further cements its role as part of Sarawak’s ‘food basket’ alongside Betong, Mukah, and Tanjung Manis, with growing potential for both domestic supply and export markets.

To support this, he said an agropark in Sarikei has been established as a catalyst for agricultural innovation and productivity.

He further emphasised the importance of building integrated road and bridge networks in Sarikei to improve mobility, facilitate logistics, and enhance the distribution of agricultural products.

“This is our aspiration to continue transforming Sarawak’s economy as the true expression of our independence.

“It is a symbol of our people’s freedom to shape our own destiny with confidence, identity, and determination to take Sarawak further forward,” he said.

In conjunction with the National Day celebration, Abang Johari called on Sarawakians to strengthen their commitment to building a prosperous state where progress is shared and inclusive.

“Let us make this National Day a moment to reinforce our patriotism and love for our homeland. Together, we will build a more progressive and united Sarawak and Malaysia,” he said.