SERIAN (Dec 7): Serian Division holds strong potential to become one of Sarawak’s key contributors to food security and agricultural exports, said State Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Martin Ben.

He highlighted Serian’s strategic strengths — including fertile land, controlled livestock diseases, and close proximity to Kuching Port and the airport — which position the division as a promising hub for both agriculture and export activities.

“Serian has already exported live pigs to Singapore and Selangor, and discussions are ongoing to expand to Penang.

“Our production has exceeded RM100 million, and with improvements in quality and productivity, we can contribute even more,” he said according to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report during the Serian Division Pre-Christmas Celebration in Tebedu on Friday.

Addressing public concerns over frequent electricity disruptions in the division, Martin assured that a newly approved joint venture between Sarawak Energy Berhad and Shanghai Electric will boost power capacity.

The project is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2028.

He added that the government remains committed to enhancing public service delivery and ensuring communities in Serian, Tebedu, and Siburan continue to benefit from agricultural and development programmes.

On the gathering, he noted it was a meaningful occasion for civil servants to reflect on their year-long service, particularly following the recent State Legislative Assembly sitting on the 2026 Budget.

Also present were Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada, district officers, and agency representatives from Serian, Tebedu, and Siburan.