KUCHING: Sarawak is now limiting land use for the cultivation of oil palm in order to focus more on the food industry.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said as part of the state’s long term solution, it is now shifting towards the food industry in view of the importance of providing food security to its people.
“Food is very important for our country in terms of food security. And for us to develop the agriculture sector, we have to change our ways from conventional to modern technology including the Internet of Things (IoT).
“Through these methods, we will be able to add value to our food industry,” he said in a press conference after officiating at the launch of the Kenyalang Biris Rice and Carus Creamy White Pepper, Sarawak Agrofest 2022 and Nyamai Sarawak Gastronomy Festival 2022 at Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre, Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.
He added that Sarawak has a huge landmass which can be used to grow its own food.
“Our policy towards 2030 is focused on the agriculture sector and at the same time we are looking at agriculture downstream activities.
“Apart from that, our approach is also to develop more agro parks that are equipped with all the digital infrastructure and a good drainage system,” he said.
He added that the agro park is geared specifically for the production of food and will thus enable the state to achieve its target of becoming a net food exporter by the year 2030.
“If we look at other countries such as Thailand, China as well as Taiwan, they are very successful in terms of food production and this is because they use technology.
“So we are looking into similar approaches, and we want to manage our economy based on the agriculture sector.
“Once you are a food exporter, you don’t rely on importing food anymore. At the same time, when we are the exporter it will strengthen our currency as well,” said Abang Johari.
