Treat tagang system as income generator, rural folks advised
The tagang system should no longer be seen as a mere hobby, but as a viable source of income especially for people in the rural areas, says Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Sarawak Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.
He stresses that this is crucial especially after only 102 out of 144 tagang systems remain active in Sarawak today, despite having been in implementation over the past 15 years.
“This is because we regard the tagang system as a hobby, just like we create an aquarium for you to see and enjoy watching fish.
“Now after 15 years, it is not practical for us to continue to think that way. We must not waste our time on activities that do not yield returns,” he said in his speech during a working visit to Kampung Terbat Mawang tagang system in Serian yesterday.
Dr Rundi acknowledged the widespread recognition of Kampung Terbat, attributing it to the success of its tagang system.
However, he also proposed diversifying income streams through ecotourism initiatives in the area.
Moreover, he stressed about the importance of setting appropriate entrance fees, enhancing facilities and exploring additional revenuegenerating activities such as handicrafts.
“We need to think outside the box, and seek ways to increase income.
“I have discussed with (Kedup assemblyman) Datuk Martin Ben, he is planning to build chalets for ecotourism, and perhaps homestays.
“This is one way to increase income.
“You can also arrange for a community effort to beautify the riverbank, create nice sitting areas, make available the facilities for fishing, and so on. You shouldn’t be happy with the increase of population of fish; you should only be happy if it could be translated into dollars and cents,” he said.