Batu Kawa positioned to become Kuching’s food basket, says Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian

suppadmin | August 21, 2026

Batu Kawa has the potential to become a major food-producing area for Kuching, particularly in vegetables and fruits, amid rapid population growth and advances in agricultural technology.

Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian who is also Batu Kawa assemblyman said the Department of Agriculture (DOA) Sarawak had continued various agricultural programmes, including financial assistance for farmers in the area over the past few years.

He said the RM1 million financial assistance allocated for 2026 was timely, particularly with farmers facing higher costs of fertilisers and other inputs due to global developments, including the Middle East conflicts.

“Congratulations to the 333 successful applicants to date for the 2026 assistance,” he said.

Dr Sim also said he looked forward to the groundbreaking of the Batu Kawa Pine Square Market, which had been re-planned to include not only 300 stalls but also a mini agricultural collection centre for local farmers.

The expanded concept would provide better opportunities for farmers to market and distribute their produce, he added.