Kota Kinabalu: The State Legislative Assembly on Thursday passed the Agricultural Produce Board (Amendment) Enactment 2024 which seeks to use technology and commercial farming to battle dwindling self-sufficiency and meet global food security issues.
The Bill which was aimed at regenerate Sabah’s rice producing sector was tabled by Sabah Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Jeffrey G Kitingan and debated by the Bongawan, Kapayan and Sindumin representatives.
Advertisement (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});While noting that the RM1.82 million alloted to his Ministry in the 2025 Sabah Budget may seem modest, he said that the funds will be spent carefully in stages.
Meanwhile, amendments to the Bill involve 12 clauses focused on providing solid legal support for the Sabah Padi and Rice Board (LPBS) activities, as well as efficient enforcement and coordination among agricultural agencies.
SPONSORED CONTENT How Spritzer’s silica rich natural mineral water makes your skin healthier When it comes to skincare, the first thought on our minds would be beauty products such as serums, creams, and masks. However, beauty experts and even researchers have stated that drinking more water can be just as crucial for your skin's health. Read more "This Bill comes at a time when global geopolitical pressures, including crises in Ukraine and Palestine, as well as ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, have heightened concerns about food security.
"These global uncertainties have showed Sabah's vulnerability to external rice supply disruptions with the state heavily dependent on imports from countries like India, Thailand and Vietnam," said Jeffrey.