Jabu showing the press a letter from Prince Albert II of Monaco during his tenure as Sarawak deputy chief minister. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad
KUCHING (June 2): The Bario Highlands has been identified as having strong potential for the cultivation of sub-temperate vegetables, similar to renowned highland farming areas such as Cameron Highlands in Peninsular Malaysia and Baguio in the Philippines.
Former Sarawak deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang said the development of proper infrastructure, particularly rural road connectivity, is key to unlocking the agricultural potential of the state’s interior regions.
“There are more than 2,000 kilometres of timber roads in the Baram area alone, and the Sarawak government remains committed to upgrading these roads to improve accessibility and providing a good road network for the future,” he told reporters.
He said this after a conversation with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the Premier’s visit to his residence for a Gawai open house on Monday.
Jabu, who served in Sarawak’s political leadership for about 40 years before retiring, said improved connectivity would significantly transform the transportation of goods from the interior.
“With better roads, transportation will be greatly improved.
“Within six hours, produce from the interior of Bario can reach Miri,” he said, adding that this would reduce reliance on imported food products and strengthen the local economy.
He stressed that the highlands, particularly Bario, hold significant promise for agricultural diversification if supported by reliable infrastructure, enabling local farmers to expand the production of high-value sub-temperate crops.
Among those present at the open house were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, and Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar.
