KUCHING, May 23: Local farmers are urged to continue the tradition of farming as a source of income and livelihood, said Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Sarawak, Dato Sri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom.
He explained that with Sarawak’s Agrofest 2024 (SAF 2024) set for a comeback this year, it will be an empowering platform for agrofarmers to improve their capability and capacity in the new economy.
In Australia or European countries, farmers are highly respected; ours is the opposite. Thus, we should change that perception, as we should be proud to be a farmer’s son.
“Farming and agriculture should be seen as commodities that shape the landscape of our socio-economy.
“With SAF 2024, through the Department of Agriculture Sarawak, exhibitors will focus on commercialization, collaboration, and new technology,” he said during a press conference held at the Ministry’s office in Wisma Bapa Malaysia on Thursday.
Commenting further, Rundi added that with the involvement of global players in the festival, it is hoped to enhance and develop an upstream and downstream supply chain of local products.
“Sarawak is blessed with low-hanging fruits such as coconuts, bananas, and durians. We should innovate technologically to cater to a wider audience in the sector,” added Rundi.
Sarawak Agrofest 2024 (SAF 2024) will commence from July 12 to July 22 at the Bintulu Old Airport.
Themed ‘Enhancing Agro Sector, Empowering Community’, the agrofest is expected to generate RM5 million in sales, attract 450,000 visitors and involve more than 200 exhibitors from the agriculture industry, agencies, entrepreneurs, and international players. – TVS
