(Kuching, 15th) Coffee planting has the potential to become the main economic activity in the Manong area.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas expressed that, since coffee was introduced a few years ago, it has brought encouraging income.
“From what I understand, there are currently plans for large-scale coffee crop cultivation and the development of a modern processing plant, in which the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) has made significant contributions. I believe that if approximately 5,000 households here each plant one hectare of coffee, then Manong could become Sarawak's 'coffee belt'.”
He stated that the benefits of large-scale planting would be greater, and farmers could more effectively solve any problems that arise together.
He made these remarks at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Manong branch meeting yesterday.
He added that continuing efforts to increase people's income is one of PBB's main goals.
As the deputy chairman of PBB, he stated that Sarawak is very fortunate to have a visionary leader like Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari.
He therefore urged all PBB members and the people of Sarawak to fully support the Sarawak Premier in reclaiming the rights of Sarawak as per the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“Now some groups and individuals have started spreading slander and lies against him, trying to damage his reputation; they are just jealous of his success and the praise and recognition he has received from various countries. They are also dissatisfied with Abang Johari's determination to protect our rights.”
Previously, Datuk Yeriy Untie, in his speech, called for upgrading the Padawan sub-district to a district.
He also urged the government to consider appointing a Bidayuh representative to the State Public Service Commission.