Kuala lumpur: The Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) is optimistic that Budget 2027 will prioritize the enhancement of the agribased-commodities sector, with a focus on increasing smallholders' incomes and enhancing the industry's competitiveness.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad emphasized the identification of five key areas in Budget 2027 to bolster the sector. A significant emphasis is placed on empowering smallholders through the provision of quality inputs, adherence to good agricultural practices, and support for replanting programs aimed at boosting productivity and income.

Noraini highlighted the transformative impact of technology on agriculture, noting its implications for the agribased-commodities sector. Industries such as palm oil, rubber, timber, cocoa, pepper, and kenaf are encouraged to leverage technology to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and produce higher-value products.

The minister also pointed out that KPK aims to accelerate mechanization, automation, and digitalization, incorporating smart technologies and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and reduce dependence on manual labor. Additionally, strengthening downstream industries through research, innovation commercialization, and the development of high-tech products is a priority to retain greater domestic value of key commodities.

Sustainability, traceability, and compliance with international standards are also emphasized to ensure the acceptance and competitiveness of Malaysian agribased commodity products in the global market.

In terms of talent development, the ministry intends to align the strengthening of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with industrial changes that are increasingly technology-driven and oriented towards highly skilled jobs. This will involve skills training and increased youth participation.

Noraini expressed confidence that government support through Budget 2027 could accelerate the sector's transformation, ensuring its role as a pillar of the national economy and contributing to the well-being of the population.

Earlier, the minister launched the Smallholder Oil Palm Replanting Financing Incentive Scheme, a collaboration between Agrobank and the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, during the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition 2026.