BEAUFORT: The State Government will further strengthen the agriculture and livestock sectors in Sabah, particularly padi cultivation and selected commodities, to reduce reliance on imports.
State Assistant Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Ruslan Muharam said the move is a strategic step to ensure food security while increasing income for farmers and livestock breeders.
He said Sabah’s heavy dependence on imported food continues to place pressure on the economy, especially amid global price uncertainties.
The State Government, through the ministry, is taking a proactive approach to strengthen local production capacity in line with long-term plans for food self-sufficiency.
“In terms of padi production, we aim to increase the self-sufficiency level (SSL) from 19 per cent to at least 30 per cent within the next few years.
“Various measures will be implemented including improving irrigation systems, adopting modern technology and providing support to farmers,” he said.
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He said the effort is important to boost local rice production and reduce dependence on imports.
Ruslan said the State Government is also focusing on developing new areas suitable for padi cultivation to increase productivity and efficiency.
He said integrated efforts are expected to strengthen the overall padi sector in Sabah.
In addition, he said high-value crops such as MD2 pineapple are being promoted due to strong international demand.
Ruslan said efforts are also underway to reduce imports of key commodities including wheat, poultry feed and onions.
He said several areas have been identified for wheat cultivation, while onion planting has begun in Kundasang and Tenom.
He added that local red onion production is targeted to reach at least 20 per cent within five years, supported by training, quality seeds and technical assistance.
He said the initiatives are also aimed at encouraging greater youth participation and ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the agriculture sector.
