ROBAN: The government needs to adopt advanced technology to ensure facilities such as the Short Take-off and Landing Airport (STOLport) and the Collection, Processing and Packaging Centre (CPPC) in Bebuling, Spaoh can be used optimally.
Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the government is now looking for ways to value-add with the use of airplanes such as for high-value crops, high-value seeds and so on.
“The government is now trying and I am taking the leadership of the food industry – we have no other way. We have to act on how we can improve and use the facilities provided.
“During the day I went to the STOLport and CPPC in Bebuling.
“What I see, if we don’t adapt to advanced technology, maybe we will take time to use the area,” he said after officiating at the Outreach Programme of MLNG Bestari at SK Ulu Roban, yesterday.
He explained that, for the long term, advanced technology is very necessary.
“I also visited Gen World Genetic (GWG), which produces high-value seeds that have to be shipped by plane and costs millions.
“Perhaps for that we can use airplanes,” he said.
On Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s stance for a change of name for the Department of Agriculture, he said it was relevant.
“I believe farming will not go anywhere, unless it is transformed into an industry.
“If we don’t change, we will never change,” he stressed.
Malaysia LNG Company Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Syazwan @ Laga Jenggi, Saratok District Education Officer Anis Madeli and SK Ulu Headmaster Roban Baning Pandang were also present.
