KUCHING: Sarawak Agricultural Veteran Association (Sava) is compiling historical records of agriculture in the state from before the Rajah Brooke era to now into a book.
Sava president Johnny Chien said the proposed ‘History of Agriculture Development in Sarawak’ was their first attempt at producing a book and it was expected to materialise in a year’s time.
This initiative is undertaken by Sava and the Department of Agriculture Sarawak. It is estimated to cost RM135,000 and 3,000 copies would be printed, he said.
“Each book will cost between RM45 and RM50. This is the cost of publication. We hope we can complete it by next year. We are now compiling the materials,” he told thesundaypost Friday.
He urged Sava members, retirees and serving agriculture department officers to give a helping hand to produce the book.
He added they contributors could provide written materials, give interviews, or provide photos they had taken during the course of their work throughout the state.
Chien said the proposed book would cover four areas.
The first part would be on the history and legacy of agriculture advances in the state. It would feature historical facts from before the Rajah Brooke era from 178O to 1841, Rajah Brooke era (1841 to 1941), Japanese Occupation (1941 to 1945), colonial days (1946 to 1963) and the 10 Malaysia Plans (1963 to 2013).
The second area will touch on social and economic aspects brought about by the introduction of rubber, pepper, coconut, oil palm and others that progressively transformed the farmers from traditional and subsistent to progressive and modern farmers.
The third portion will touch on crops, animals, fishery and other services provided by the agriculture department to meet the needs of the target audience over the years.
The fourth part will carry adventure stories encountered by frontline staff and officers during their course of travelling in the line of duty.
Those keen to make enquiries can call Chien at 016-808 4828, vice president Piara Singh Gill (012-209 8552), secretary-general Robert Josem (019-818 6903), Lim Chow Shiun (019-887 0185) or Howell Menjat (013-833 3494).