KUCHING, May 25: Engagement with the private sector is crucial to create a holistic agriculture ecosystem to expedite the export of Sarawak’s four main crops – coconut, banana, pineapple and durian.
Minister of Modern Agriculture and Regional Development, Dato Sri Stephen Rundi Utom said this can be achieved through methods such as anchor farming where big industry players will enable agricultural activities are not done in silo.
“These are the people who has the technologies, expertise, networks and means which could determine the future of our agriculture endeavours.
“We want to create an ecosystem where whatever crops we choose to export, be it in its original form or processed into a more value added product, we don’t want to produce any waste,” said Rundi in a press conference held during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting.
Wastage is one of the major concern of agriculture in Sarawak, hence, a proper measure will need to be undertaken to achieve a greener economy and a nett food exporter as stated in Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy PCDS2030.
Rundi also raised concerns over farmers who are too focused on developing Palm Oil based products as it generate more income, though the process is meticulous.
“Our job is to balance the agriculture industry so that we can monitor the growth of each crop and how do we improve the crop’s yield for every category of farmers.
“This also concerns our food security. From paddy to ruminants and livestock. We have to have a balance of things,” added the minister.
In terms of the identification of market to export Sarawak’s products, Rundi admits such matter is an easy task.
However, difficulties arise when no prior connection is established with the international market.
“Therefore, I hope that our industry players, agencies and officers under the ministry of modern agriculture would look into establishing an effective supply chain and ecosystem so that more crops can be turned into premium products,” said Rundi. – TVS
