SOOK: Sabah continues to move forward as one of the leading states in modern agriculture and food security, said Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup.
He expressed appreciation to the state government for its strong support of various ministry initiatives, including the Contract Farming Programme, Young Agropreneur Programme, Matching Grants, the development of agricultural marketing hubs, and the strengthening of the agri-food logistics system.
In officiating the Food and Agro-Based Industry (IMAT) 2025 Programme @ Sabah in Pekan Sook today, Arthur said the IMAT programme is a clear manifestation of the MADANI Government’s goal to build a sustainable, competitive, and people-oriented national agri-food ecosystem.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) is focusing on ensuring the availability, accessibility, affordability, and stability of the country’s food supply. This aligns with the National Food Security Policy, which serves as the ministry’s strategic foundation.
Programmes such as IMAT, organised by the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA), serve as an important platform to empower agro-entrepreneurs. Beyond increasing local entrepreneurs’ sales, it also educates the public on the potential of the agri-food sector.
The IMAT programme plays a vital role in strengthening the national agri-food ecosystem. It provides opportunities for local entrepreneurs to increase their income, establish business networks with distributors and modern markets, and promote local products.
“We cannot rely too heavily on imported sources. Instead, we must strengthen our local industry,” he said.
The government, he added, continues to provide various forms of assistance, including technical guidance, entrepreneurship training, and wider market access to support farmers and producers.
The programme also aligns with the MADANI government’s aspiration to empower the rural economy.
The presence of thousands of visitors in Sook is expected to generate positive economic spillover for the local community through food supply, transportation, and daily product sales.
KPKM and FAMA hope that all Malaysians, particularly consumers, will give their full support to local products. Such support not only boosts entrepreneurs’ income but also strengthens the government’s agenda to safeguard national food security.
The IMAT programme also provides the public with a valuable opportunity to learn more about government services and policies, creating a platform for two-way communication between the government and the people.
Arthur also urged youths not to miss the opportunity to participate in and benefit from agri-food entrepreneurship platforms like IMAT, noting that the sector continues to grow and promises a bright future.
He expressed his highest appreciation and congratulations to FAMA, the state government, participating agencies, and all personnel who worked hard to make the Food and Agro-Based Industry (IMAT) 2025 Programme @ Sabah a success.
