SEBAUH, July 13 2026: Sarawak is strengthening the agricultural sector through the application of modern technology and innovation to increase productivity, farmers' income and ensure the state's food security.
Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the agricultural sector needs to shift from traditional methods to the use of technology such as 'Precision Farming', Internet of Things (IoT), fertigation, hydroponics and mechanisation.
According to him, this approach is important to ensure that agricultural products are more efficient, of better quality and able to provide better returns to entrepreneurs.
"If an effort is not profitable, then the way of working needs to be changed. Agriculture today must be driven by knowledge, technology and innovation," he said when speaking at the AgroFest Sebauh 2026 Adjournment Ceremony.
Dr Rundi also emphasised that the success of the agricultural sector requires comprehensive cooperation involving the government, private sector, research institutions and the farming community in developing a sustainable and competitive agricultural ecosystem.
He explained that the Department of Agriculture plays an important role as a facilitator by providing training, technical services and continuous guidance to farmers so that they can master the entire agricultural value chain.
In addition, he said, young people are also encouraged to venture into modern agriculture which is seen as having the potential to generate lucrative income if pursued professionally and using the latest technology.
The Sarawak government also, he said, continues to strengthen efforts to increase local food production including rice, grain corn, fruits, vegetables, livestock and aquaculture to reduce dependence on food imports.
He also reminded officers of the Department of Agriculture to continue to go to the field to help farmers, resolve issues on the ground and ensure that each project is implemented effectively.
AgroFest Sebauh 2026, which lasted for three days, brought together various government agencies, agro-entrepreneurs and local communities through exhibitions, technology demonstrations, sales of agricultural products and knowledge sharing sessions.
Also present were Bintulu Division Resident Nyurak Keti, Department of Agriculture Director Dominic Chunggat, Sebauh District Officer, Thaddeus Ling and Bintulu Divisional Agriculture Officer, Jackson Nanta.
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