1. Master Plan for Community Development in the Resettlement Areas 2050

The project was commissioned by the Economic Planning Unit Sarawak (EPU) and led by Chemsain Konsultant Sdn. Bhd, with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and SDI as part of the research consultant team. SDI’s role and tasks within the study consists of the socio-economic demography of the resettled population, the impact of the resettlement as well as providing input for future action, focusing specifically on Batang Ai and Bengoh resettlement areas. The study aims to provide a detailed analysis and examination of the resettlements that have been undertaken in Sarawak as well as the lessons learned, which will be incorporated into a proposed new resettlement model.

Status – The project has submitted its Draft Final 1 Report to EPU in December 2024. This was followed by workshops in February 2025 to refine the proposed actions and development plans as well as discussions the proposed resettlement model.

2. Sarawak’s Civil Service – Administration and Development: Reflections and Reminiscences over 60 Years

The book project aims to collect the experiences and reflections of former senior Sarawak civil servants, as well as explore the various milestones and transformation of the Sarawak civil service covering the different eras of history, starting from the Brooke era, the Confrontation, Communist Emergency, the formation of Malaysia and beyond. Writing and researching of the book was undertaken by Faradale Media-M Sdn. Bhd. A total of 25 individuals were interviewed and shared their stories and experiences.

Status – The 264-page book has completed final editing and adjustment and is currently in the process of printing and binding, with completion expected in early April 2025.

3. Greater Together: Mapping of Paddy Production Ecosystem in Batang Lupar Granary Area, Sri Aman

The project was commissioned by the Sarawak Government in January 2025. The project aims to identify the different needs and challenges of every stakeholder within the industry such as farmers and landowners, youths within the area, community leaders in the area, anchor companies offering modern paddy planting schemes, rice milling companies, rice wholesalers, community organisations in the area, and government agencies. The mapping will also identify the interpersonal and multidirectional relationships between stakeholders and illustrate the gaps or challenges along the rice supply chain. The project will involve identified communities in the areas of IADA Batang Lupar, specifically in Stumbin-Tanjung Bijat, and some in Seduku and Lingga-Banting.

Status – Following the submission of the inception report in February 2025, primary data collection has commenced, with this phase expected conclude in April 2025.