DALAT: More than 80 participants from Dalat including smallholders, youth and local micro-entrepreneurs gained practical knowledge in sago cultivation and downstream food processing technology through the Technology Transfer Programme 2025 organised by CRAUN Research Sdn Bhd.

The two-day programme, supported by Sarawak Sago and Nipah Development Board (SNDB) and Dalat Service Centre, focused on developing modern skills and enhancing product value to support income generation for rural families.

Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the state government remains committed to ensuring local communities gain long-term benefits from the growth of the sago sector.

In addition, she said the programme continues to enhance the strength of Dalat’s sago industry, ensuring local smallholders and entrepreneurs remain competitive and sustainably empowered to meet market demand.

“The programme is part of continuous efforts to modernise the sago value chain through knowledge, technology and innovation.

“This programme strengthens rural communities to produce safe, quality and competitive products,” she said at the programme’s closing ceremony held recently.

She highlighted ongoing efforts, including the establishment of the Sarawak Sago and Nipah Development Board (SNDB) and the approved SNDB Complex in Dalat, which will spur the industry’s transformation and future agro-tourism opportunities.

Fatimah also acknowledged CRAUN Research Sdn Bhd, which is now under the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development (M-FICORD), for converting research into practical technologies such as high-yield clone seedlings, FERTARA organic fertiliser and innovative sago-based food products.

“Research findings must be translated into practical applications to directly benefit smallholders and increase household income,” she added.

The ceremony also saw the handover of sago smallholder registration forms by the Dalat District Rumbia Smallholders Association to SNDB as a step toward structured and systematic industry development in Dalat and Mukah.

She also stressed the importance of youth and women participation through initiatives such as STEX Dalat, ‘Anjung Usahawan’ one-stop centre and innovation in converting factory waste into fertiliser and animal feed using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology.

“With strong collaboration, we can uplift rural living standards while preserving the cultural identity and harmony of our people,” she said.

Alongside economic progress, she highlighted continued support for preserving Melanau culture through initiatives such as the Melanau Heritage Gallery and ‘Tapak Kaul Oya’ development.