Sarawak: Sarawak's Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister, Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom has called on all staff at the state's Agriculture Department to deliver services with integrity and a customer-friendly approach. He highlighted the department's vital role in rural and remote areas, where most people are farmers who frequently interact with them for assistance and guidance.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rundi emphasized the importance of empathy and kindness in service, advising against negative attitudes when addressing farmers' inquiries about fertiliser assistance or when managing tasks. He addressed these remarks at a ceremony for handing over official cars to the state's Agricultural Department.

Rundi stressed that the department should never make farmers feel hopeless or embarrassed to seek help, as they are entrusted with maintaining the department's reputation and serving the agricultural sector. Speaking to reporters after flagging off the 14 four-wheel drive vehicles, he stressed that it is the state government's responsibility to transform their rural communities, particularly farmers and fishermen.

He also stated that with food security in place, Sarawak will become more prosperous and advanced. Rundi acknowledged that Sarawak has lagged in development but now has the resources to catch up. He also emphasised the need to encourage young people to engage in modern agriculture, which offers promising returns.

Looking ahead, Rundi conveyed his hope that farmers in Sarawak will be highly regarded as those in Australia, and believes this can be achieved through reforms in the agricultural sector.