Do more to modernise agro sector — TYT

WELCOME: Salahuddin and Norkiah welcomed by DUN Speaker Datuk Amar Asfia Awang Nassar on arrival at the DUN compound.

THE Head of State Tun Datuk Patinggi Abang Muhammad Salahuddin has advised the public and private sectors to modernise the agriculture sector more aggressively as the state had the potential to become the nation’s main food producer.

In his keynote address at the opening of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday, he said the agriculture sector was very lucrative if developed on a commercial scale using modern technologies.

The private sector, with its vast financial resources, expertise, and technologies had the capacity to develop the sector to its full potential, he said.

“The state has a huge potential in agriculture as we have vast and arable land. With good management and modern practices, we can turn the state into one of the main food producers in the country.”

Salahuddin also encouraged the private sector to increase their investment in the rural areas to develop its economic potentials. He added that the rural areas had big potential for growth considering the government’s priority to open up the rural areas.

This could be seen through its huge allocation for basic infrastructure development.

On tourism, he stressed that the private sector should increase their investment in terms of basic infrastructure development, products, and promotions.

“Our state is rich in tourism assets, such as its rich culture, biodiversity, natural resources, local traditions, food and heritage. Tourism has vast potential for development since it is one of the industries given focus in SCORE (Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy) development plan.”

Salahuddin also commented on the nation’s strong economic status despite global uncertainties of late. He noted that many initiatives had been initiated to spur economic growth to increase investment and domestic usage to minimise foreign impacts to the country’s economy.

Salahuddin also praised the government for taking the initiative to help the people cope with the rising cost of living, especially those from the low income group.

“Various programmes such as the 1Malaysia People’s Aid (BR1M), Kedai Rakyat 1Malaysia, Menu Rakyat 1Malaysia, 1Malaysia Clinic and Student’s Book Voucher have been introduced. These programmes show that the government always takes care of the people’s welfare and well being.”