LAWAS: The collection, processing and packaging centre (CPPC) here is expected to be operational by next year, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
He said the government has discussed with the private sector on the management of the centre for agriculture produce.
“We have also agreed to appoint one private company to manage the CPPC in Lawas,” he said when officiating at the Agriculture Community Outreach Programme (AgriCOP) at Trusan Futsal hall here today.
He said the purpose of the CPPC will be to collect agriculture produce and livestock which can be then prompted and sold to a wider market.
“Therefore, with this CPPC, there must also be sufficient supply of agriculture produce. If it is not enough, what is there to process?
“So, you must start to plan now although it is considered too late. You must start somewhere and plan,” he said.
For Trusan and Merapok areas, he said the state government together with the Agriculture Department can look into what plantation is suitable and to be focused on.
On another note, the use of modern agricultural technology can help to increase agriculture and livestock productivity.
“Farmers, especially in Trusan are urged capitalise on new technology in agriculture activities and livestock farming. Now there are plenty of technologies that can be utilised to increase agriculture and livestock productivities.
“Before this, people have to work very hard and the productivity was not that high. Today, even thought there is no huge land, but with technology, we can increase the productivity,” he said.
He added that technology as well as research and development (R&D) would ensure a production of quality food for the people.
“What is important is to also have awareness of the development in technology and we can apply all these modern facilities in economic activities, agriculture and breeding,” he said.
He said the facilities are already available and Sarawak Agriculture Department and other agencies could provide assistance to the farmers.
“If you are unsure of how it (modern farming) works, you can always visit the respective agencies for help,” he said, adding that an example of modern farming include fertigation process.
Awang Tengah said another area that has to be focused on is on how to market the agriculture produce, and he hoped the relevant agencies would come in to assist and guide the community on how to penetrate a wider market.
