Book highlighting plant import guidelines launched to protect S’wak agricultural trade

KUCHING (Nov 6): The launch of the book entitled ‘Guidelines for the Importation of Plants, Plant Products, and Regulated Articles’, aims to provide essential guidance for ensuring that agricultural trade in Sarawak remains safe and compliant.

Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Sarawak Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the publication’s concept was inspired by Plant Biosecurity & Quarantine Division’s mission to elevate the state’s agricultural trade standards amidst the rising demand for imported agricultural products.

“Safeguarding our biosecurity borders and beyond is now crucial. This book aims to support importers and regulatory bodies alike, while also aiming to raise public awareness.

“It offers practical guidance on adhering to the Plant Quarantine Act, which is seen as a vital step in defending our agricultural ecosystems and natural resources from pests and diseases,” said Dr Rundi.

His text speech was read by Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail at the Agricultural Trade Facilitation Engagement Programme held at a leading hotel here yesterday.

Dr Rundi added that by following such guidelines, the state can mitigate biosecurity risks, encourage safe trade practices, and support the growth and sustainability of its agricultural sectors.

“We hope the knowledge shared in this book will help stakeholders not only meet regulatory standards but also to adopt best practices to protect and sustain our agricultural environment.

“This publication is a valuable tool in our mission to secure Sarawak’s agricultural future by minimising pest introduction risks and foster sustainable growth,” he said.

Meanwhile, Abdul Rahman shared that the ministry is working to introduce more Sarawak-owned products.

“Under the directive of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the ministry has been tasked with establishing the state as a net food exporter by 2030, although imports cannot be entirely restricted,” he told reporters when met after the event.

“For example, while we produce chillies in Sarawak, we often import large quantities from Vietnam.

“This affects the local chilli industry, which is something we must consider as we strive to develop our agricultural sector and achieve net food exporter status by 2030,” he explained.

He noted that although Sarawak has not recently faced severe pest infestations, vigilance remains essential.

“In 2007, we encountered an outbreak of citrus greening disease, impacting over 1,200 hectares of lime plantations in Samarahan.

“Although we haven’t fully overcome this, we aim to prevent similar outbreaks from affecting major crops like coconut, durian, banana, and pepper,” he said.

Abdul Rahman added that while the book provides guidance, it will require cooperation from all parties to effectively manage pest challenges.

Among those present were the ministry’s permanent secretary Datu Sirai Daha, Deputy State Secretary Datu Buckland Bangik, Sarawak Agriculture Department deputy director Radziah Jack, and event organising chairperson Asmah Salowi.