Kota kinabalu: The evolution of Malaysia's agricultural sector over the past five decades will be showcased at the 2025 National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen's Day (HPPNK), to be held from tomorrow until Aug 3 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), from 9 am to 10 pm.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak emphasized that the agriculture sector should no longer be viewed as traditional, dirty, or high-risk. The sector is now driven by modern technologies such as drones, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and smart agriculture systems.
Isham highlighted the transformation of Malaysian agriculture from its conservative roots to its current modern state. He stressed that the public needs to recognize agriculture as a viable income-generating sector that has evolved significantly over time.
With the theme 'Kudrat Kami Menjamin Pertiwi' (Our Strength Secures the Nation), the 50th edition of HPPNK aims to highlight this comprehensive transformation. Isham noted the importance of encouraging youth participation in agriculture, as many current farmers, breeders, and fishermen are ageing, and technology adoption is crucial for the sector's future.
To attract younger generations, HPPNK 2025 will feature activities such as e-sports, a farmers' kitchen showcasing local cuisine, and Agrobelia, a youth agro exhibition. Technologies like IoT will be highlighted to show how farms can be managed via mobile phones, making agriculture more appealing to the tech-savvy youth.
HPPNK 2025, which expects to attract 500,000 visitors, will be organized around four key components: Agro Millenia, Cukup dan Terjamin (Secure and Sufficient), Sejahtera MADANI, and Agro MADANI sales. The event will also expose farmers and agropreneurs to value-adding technologies like canning, jam-making, and ready-to-eat food production.
The event will feature an exhibition on the use of robotics and drone technology, which can reduce dependence on foreign labor. Innovations such as GPS-guided systems and e-floc technology for pond water treatment will be showcased to help reduce operational costs and increase efficiency.
Visitors can experience these technologies firsthand through simulations provided by KPKM's strategic partners and exhibitors. Isham also emphasized the focus on circular economy concepts and sustainability, repurposing agricultural waste into resources like fertiliser and animal feed.
Another highlight is the ASEAN Farmers Village, which brings together ASEAN member countries. Indonesia and Thailand have confirmed their participation, showcasing their agricultural technologies and produce, thus strengthening regional agro-cooperation.