Dr Rundi: Sarawak’s coffee sector needs to develop climate-resilient practices, sustainable premium brand

KUCHING (Nov 6): Sarawak needs to invest in climate-resilient practices and sustainable premium products to develop a coffee sector that contributes to the state’s economic growth, said Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.

The Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Minister said climate change has affected coffee production at nearly every stage in coffee-growing regions across the world.

“Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and the increased prevalence of extreme weather events are impacting yields and quality, making it harder for farmers to manage the risks associated with coffee cultivation.

“Our challenge now is to implement effective climate-resilient agricultural practices that will support Sarawak’s coffee farmers in navigating the uncertainties of climate change,” he said in a speech for the opening of the Coffee and Climate Change in Southeast Asia Workshop: Outlook for the Sarawak Coffee Industry here today.

Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil delivered the speech.

Dr Rundi pointed out techniques such as shade-grown coffee, agroforestry, and soil moisture management have proven to be effective.

“They offer not only resilience but also enhanced ecosystem services that align with our goals for sustainable, regenerative agriculture,” he said.

He stressed addressing climate change and securing the future of Sarawak’s coffee industry required a collective effort.

“By accepting partnerships, we can benefit from research activities, adopt advanced farming techniques, and secure financial support mechanisms that encourage climate-smart practices.

“International stakeholders also play a key role, providing insights, technological innovations, and funding that strengthens our local capacity.

“We must nurture collaboration between farmers, government agencies, research institutions, NGOs (non-governmental organisations), and private sector partners. Such partnerships will enable knowledge-sharing, resource pooling, and coordinated action,” he said.

He noted that building Sarawak’s coffee brand as a climate-friendly, speciality product can help attract premium markets willing to pay higher prices for sustainable and high-quality coffee.

“This requires us to establish robust quality standards and promote certifications, such as organic or fair-trade, which can enhance the appeal of Sarawak coffee on the global stage,” said Dr Rundi.

Academic and research institutions play a vital role in advancing climate-resilient coffee production practices where they can provide actionable insights to coffee farmers by conducting free trials, testing new varieties, and developing region-specific solutions, he said.

Dr Rundi said it is also imperative that investments be made on extension services that equip farmers with the knowledge and tools to implement climate-resilient practices.

“Training programmes and workshops like today’s event as well as demonstration farms can help farmers understand new methods and technologies.

“This is particularly important for smallholder farmers, who may lack the resources or technical know-how to adapt independently,” he said.

He emphasised that his ministry is committed to supporting policies that incentivise climate-smart agriculture.

“Many smallholder farmers lack access to the capital required to invest in new technologies and practices.

“We need financial solutions that support adaptation, including affordable loans, micro-finance options, and public-private partnerships. Financial assistance can empower farmers to adopt climate-smart technologies and make the necessary investments in their farms,” he added.

Among those present were Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh and Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus.