Jamawi: Sabah to develop 2,000ha mini paddy estates on idle land

KOTA BELUD (March 11): Sabah is set to implement a mini paddy estate approach to increase rice self-sufficiency level (SSL) while also utilising idle land across the state, said Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister said the initiative was discussed during an engagement session involving various agricultural agencies at both state and federal levels.

“During the session, we discussed plans to develop about 2,000ha of idle land through the mini estate approach,” he told reporters when visiting the Timbang Menggaris Rice Seed Production Centre here on Tuesday.

Jamawi said the development of the idle land through the mini estate approach is expected to be funded by the federal government through the Ministry of Economy.

“The important thing is that our farmers will be able to generate income and cultivate land that has long been left idle without planting and without any returns,” he said.

“We will do our best for the people of Sabah and continue cooperation between the state and federal governments in developing Sabah’s paddy industry.”