Kota kinabalu: The interim report of the 2024 Agriculture Census shows that Sabah recorded the highest number of agricultural holdings in Malaysia, with a total of 159,259. Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the agricultural holdings refer to the number of individuals or organizations engaged in the agricultural sector, with Sabah's interior zone-comprising the districts of Keningau, Sook, Nabawan, Tambunan, and Tenom-accounting for 26 percent of the state's total agricultural holdings.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this number is expected to increase further given the vast potential of undeveloped agricultural land in the interior areas. Kurup highlighted this point when launching the Road to National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen Day (HPPNK) 2025 Series 2. In response to this development, he stated that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, through its various agencies, has stepped up efforts to boost the agricultural sector in these areas.
These efforts include establishing the Sook Area Farmers' Organization (PPK), setting up a coffee processing facility in Sapulut, Nabawan, restoring padi fields in Tulid, and cultivating taro and onions in Sook. Additionally, there are plans to introduce high market-potential crops such as MD2 pineapples. Kurup emphasized that the federal government, together with the state government, remains committed to strengthening the agricultural sector through policy planning, technical support programs, and rural infrastructure investments to enhance agri-food productivity.
He further explained that the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) plays a crucial role in strengthening the agri-food security chain by focusing on accessibility and affordability for consumers, supply availability, as well as usage stability and sustainability. Last year, Sabah FAMA was allocated RM13.8 million for the implementation of 313 projects and programs, benefiting over 29,000 entrepreneurs and contributing to sales worth RM83 million.
Kurup expressed confidence that with the upgrading of tamu (rural markets), strengthening of retail outlet networks, and strategic engagement with farmers and operators at the grassroots level, Sabah can become a key pillar in the national food security agenda. Commenting on the Road to HPPNK 2025 program, he noted it serves as a platform to recognize the contributions and roles of farmers, breeders, and fishermen in developing the national agri-food sector.
The HPPNK event held in Sook marks the final series before the national-level HPPNK 2025, which is scheduled to occur from August 1 to 3 in Kota Kinabalu. This year's event is particularly significant as it celebrates 50 years of HPPNK, and the national-level HPPNK celebration returns to Sabah after 30 years, with the last event hosted by Sabah occurring in 1995.