KUCHING: The state and federal governments are committed to strengthening cooperation, particularly in promoting the use of technology in agricultural activities, to increase production yields and ensure food security for the nation.
In his meeting with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia recently, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the empowerment of modern technology in agriculture is also among the solutions to address the issues and challenges faced by the agrofood sector domestically and globally.
The meeting also saw a discussion between Abang Johari and Mohamad Sabu on various forms of collaboration to modernise the agriculture sector in Sarawak and to advance the nation’s agrofood sector as a whole.
“For 2024, my ministry will focus on strengthening four industries including rice and grain, chicken and eggs, onions, and the pineapple industry.
“This initiative will be strengthened holistically and comprehensively through the National Innovation Programme for People’s Agrofood Security (PINTAR).
“This aspiration is in line with the strategic framework under the National Agrofood Policy 2021-2030 (NAP 2.0),” he said.
The visit also included several inspections of agricultural projects under the supervision of MAFS and the distribution of mechanisation assistance packages to leading companies under the Large-Scale SMART Field Programme (SMART SBB).
Engagement sessions were also held with stakeholders and industry players across all agrofood subsectors in Sarawak to obtain input, perspectives, and suggestions to further strengthen the nation’s food security sustainably.
Present during the visit were Deputy Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom and other distinguished guests.
