KUCHING: Sarawak’s Agriculture Department which is celebrating its 100th anniversary has pledged to step up efforts to transform the agricultural sector in the state.
These are aimed at bringing about a sustainable and technology-driven agriculture sector to ensure food security, generate wealth for farming communities, and make Sarawak a net food exporter by 2030.
Agriculture director Dominic Chunggat said this during the 100th anniversary celebration of the department here on Monday (Nov 25).
“Several initiatives that act as catalysts for achieving this vision are being implemented by the department in collaboration with agencies under the supervision of the Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Ministry,” he said.
“These initiatives aim to increase food production, encourage farming communities’ involvement in commercial agriculture, and strengthen market access.
“Among the key initiatives are:
- Increasing Food Production by empowering the rice and rice industry.
- Expanding food production areas by developing special zones for agricultural activities such as Agropark, Sarawak Agrotechnology Park (Sartech), Precision Farming Park, and Aquaculture Park.
- Boosting private sector involvement and investment in commercial agriculture through the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model.
- Developing a complete supply chain with the establishment of Collection, Processing, and Packaging Centres (CPPC) / Agrofood Terminals,” he added.
In conjunction with its centenary a book has been published to appreciate the contributions of officers and relevant parties in advancing the agricultural sector in Sarawak.
“A Metamorphosis: 100 Years of the Department of Agriculture of Sarawak’ also commemorates the history of the department.
Dominic said through its pages, readers will be able to appreciate the history and journey of the department’s transformation, which reflects it’s continuous efforts to modernise agricultural techniques and practices over the past century.
“This book also records important events and the progress of the department since its establishment.
“By publishing this book, I hope it will not only honour the past but also serve as a reference and guide for future generations.”
The book was presented to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during the anniversary celebration.
Also present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
