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Kota Kinabalu: Over 3,000 acres in Sabah are now planted with high-value fruits such as durian, avocado, and banana by 170 members of the Sabah Durian and Tropical Fruit Planters Association (MASDA)

“We’re not just marking an anniversary, we’re celebrating the unity, innovation, and perseverance that have brought us here,” said Chairman Duane Evans at its jubilee dinner, recently.

Evans said their successes, which include improved farming practices and production yields, consistent training initiatives, strengthened ties with universities and agencies, and expanded access to both domestic and export markets. 

He encouraged young growers to embrace modern techniques while acknowledging the enduring contributions of veteran farmers.

Since 2021, MASDA had championed innovation, working closely with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) on post-harvest research and teaming up with government agencies to boost marketing and supply chain efficiency. 

It collaborated with Tourism Malaysia and the Sabah Tourism Board, in launching the Sabah Durian Packages, an agro-tourism initiative inviting visitors to explore local durian farms, while supporting growers.

It also celebrated the outstanding contributions of MASDA members through a series of special recognition. 

Ben Tee received the Young Farmer Excellence Award for his innovative approach and commitment to modern agriculture. 

The title of Outstanding Farmer of the Year went to Steven Soong, in recognition of his dedication and leadership in the field.

Jason Wong Kon Ming received the Outstanding Agriculture Educator Award for his efforts in nurturing knowledge and skills among growers. 

The Agri-Tourism Excellence Award was presented to Johnny Ting for promoting farm tourism and community engagement, and the Community Impact in Agriculture Award recipient was Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, acknowledging his meaningful work in uplifting rural farming communities through cultivation of onions, among others.

Looking ahead, MASDA announced plans for the inaugural Sabah Durian Summit, scheduled for October 3–4, 2025, at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). 

Co-organised as part of the AgTech International Agro Expo, the summit will host networking sessions, expert panels on market chains and cultivation techniques, technology showcases, and trade opportunities for stakeholders across the durian industry.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Permanent Secretary Datuk Leonard Stephen Poyong reaffirmed the government’s commitment to agricultural development through the Sabah Agriculture Master Plan.

This included the modernisation via technology, increased productivity, stronger public-private collaboration, and active involvement of youth and skilled farmers.

“We must support farmers in transitioning to modern agriculture, including the use of drones, fertigation systems, digital platforms, and environmentally friendly practices.

The government welcomes collaboration with all parties who share our goal of a progressive, sustainable, and competitive agricultural sector for Sabah,” said Leonard.

Also present were Datuk Jifrin Haji Mohammad, Director of the Sabah Department of Agriculture; Deputy Director Jackson Ronald Jaimi; Dr. Chloe Fan of UMS; Julinus Jeffrey Jimit, CEO of the Sabah Tourism Board; and Haryanti Abu Bakar, Director of Tourism Malaysia Sabah.