KENINGAU: The Chairman of Merampong Keningau Community and Agro-based Tourism Cooperative Berhad (Kopetam Bhd), Salehuddin Tahir, said agri-tourism plays a vital role in stimulating the rural economy by encouraging tourists to engage directly with farm life, ranging from U-pick harvest experiences to traditional craft workshops.
He said such activities generate employment opportunities for local communities in areas such as hospitality, tour guiding and maintenance.
Salehuddin also highlighted agri-tourism’s role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community pride. By showcasing traditional farming techniques, local cuisines and ancestral stories, rural communities are able to safeguard their identity amid the pressures of modernisation.
This cultural exchange not only educates visitors but also empowers local residents, particularly the younger generation, by demonstrating the value and viability of rural life, thereby helping to curb urban migration.
“Agri-tourism is not just about visiting a farm; it is about the synergistic intersection of agriculture and tourism that showcases the tangible and intangible resources of a region,” he said.
Salehuddin noted that farms embracing agri-tourism often transition towards sustainable and regenerative practices. As visitors are attracted to the natural beauty and authenticity of the countryside, farmers are encouraged to protect biodiversity and maintain soil health.
In regions such as Sabah and Sarawak, agri-tourism is increasingly being recognised as a key driver of growth, linking agriculture, tourism and manufacturing to create a more holistic and sustainable development model.
