Sarawak must move beyond routine practices to become major food exporter, says Dr Rundi

SIBU (Feb 13): Agriculture must move beyond routine administration to outcome-driven delivery if Sarawak is to become a major food producer and future net exporter, said State Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.

Speaking at the 2025 Excellent Service Award Ceremony of the Sarawak Department of Agriculture here, Dr Rundi said the first year of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is critical for the Department of Agriculture to deliver measurable results and improve food security.

He noted that the sector contributes about 10 per cent to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP) — around RM50 billion — but much of its potential remains untapped.

Among key targets is exporting at least 450,000 metric tonnes of agricultural products annually by 2030.

“Every division must have a clear plan with timelines and outcomes. Leadership must be accountable and present at key meetings,” he said, urging officers to move beyond routine practices.

“Leadership is not just a title; it is being present, accountable, and guiding every inch of our work.”

Highlighting generational challenges, Dr Rundi said many of Sarawak’s farmers are elderly, some in their 70s and 80s, and called for greater participation from youth.

He announced that 60 youths will be sent to Australia for exposure to modern farming practices, adding that mechanisation, precision farming, aquaculture, and smart technologies must be scaled up to attract the next generation.

Addressing land and productivity issues, he said Sarawak’s large landmass must be matched with suitable soil, topography, and water access.

Currently, 14,000 – 15,000 hectares have been earmarked for strategic agricultural development.

“If Taiwan, a mountainous nation one-third our size, can export efficiently, so can Sarawak,” he said, highlighting the state’s potential to compete internationally.

Dr Rundi also emphasised that while the department runs more than 70 programmes, delivery and tangible outcomes matter more than numbers.

Continuous staff training, disciplined budget utilisation, and proactive implementation of modern technologies are essential to boost productivity and uplift rural communities.

“Nothing is impossible if we work proactively, think outside the box, and push beyond routine responsibilities,” he said, calling on officers to innovate and ensure that every initiative contributes to Sarawak’s food security and the well-being of farming communities.