Sarawak is gearing up to unveil a transformative agricultural strategy that will repurpose palm oil waste into sustainable livestock feed, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced today.
The plan, set to be revealed by the end of the year, aims to boost agricultural incomes and reduce the state’s dependence on imported animal feed, a significant cost driver in livestock farming.
Speaking after attending an Aidiladha event, Abang Johari said the idea was sparked after he saw potential in turning agricultural waste into value.
“Rather than discarding palm waste, we can process it into biomass-based feed, enrich it with napier grass and use it to raise livestock more efficiently,” he said.
The strategy involves converting existing oil palm plantations into integrated feedlot centres, where livestock can be raised using locally produced feed made from palm byproducts. This move aligns with Sarawak’s long-term goal of strengthening food security and building a more self-reliant agricultural sector.
“If we can produce quality livestock feed locally using palm waste and napier grass, our cattle will have access to a more nutritious diet, and we’ll reduce the need to import expensive feedstock,” Abang Johari added.
The initiative is part of the state government’s broader push toward sustainable and circular agricultural practices. It also supports Sarawak’s economic agenda to increase rural incomes and create new revenue streams within existing plantation frameworks.
However, he did not disclose further details but indicated that the full strategy, including implementation mechanisms and stakeholder involvement, would be announced later this year.
