The agricultural sector is driven by modern technology productivity levels

BINTULU, 4 Oct: Sarawak's agricultural sector needs to continue shifting from traditional methods to more modern and technology-based approaches to increase productivity as well as opening up more opportunities for the younger generation.

Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development of Sarawak, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail said that technological developments including automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent agriculture give more space to young people to make the agricultural sector a viable career as well as business.

"Agriculture is no longer a traditional field. We have to use modern technology, digital technology, automation, artificial intelligence, smart agriculture and innovation.

"This sector provides a wide space for young people to earn high incomes", he said while addressing the Sarawak Agrofest 2026 Suspension Council at Bintulu Old Airport, here today.

He said efforts to increase productivity and expand the use of technology as well as mechanisation should be strengthened in order to keep Sarawak's agricultural sector competitive.

He also said local agricultural output should not be stopped as raw material, but rather processed and added value to increase entrepreneurial income and penetrate wider markets, especially export markets.

"The cooperation of all players in the agricultural industry is essential. Governments can provide policy and support, but the real success of the agricultural sector depends on the cooperation of all stakeholders.

"We need to build a strong value chain so that the benefits of development are not only felt by industrial players, but also by urban and rural communities", he added.

He said that Sarawak has great advantages in the agriculture sector due to the land area, natural resources and biodiversity wealth of the state.

Therefore, efforts to strengthen the sector must be continued in order to achieve Sarawak's goal of being a net exporter of food and increase incomes for farmers.

He also encouraged farmers, ranchers, fishermen and agropenors to take bold action to explore new approaches, improve product quality and leverage the latest technologies.

Additionally, various facilities such as farming centres and agro gardens being developed across Sarawak also provide opportunities for those interested to venture into the field. - TVS