Sabah’s new Rural Agricultural Economic Revolution initiative aims to enhance food production and rural economies through household gardens and modern farming.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has launched a strategic five-year plan to bolster food security and stimulate rural economic growth.
The Rural Agricultural Economic Revolution (RAER) Initiative 2025-2030 was announced by Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman.
He said the plan includes a Kitchen Garden Programme to encourage household-level agricultural production.
“This initiative not only helps reduce the cost of living, but also fosters a culture of agriculture among the community,” Musa said during the state government’s policy speech.
The speech marked the opening of the Second Term of the 17th Sabah State Legislative Assembly.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor was also in attendance for the announcement.
The state will work with industry and smallholders to improve oil palm plantation productivity through innovation and technology.
Musa stated the goal is to ensure Sabah’s oil palm industry remains a sustainable mainstay of economic growth.
Sustainability aspects will be maintained while adopting high-precision agricultural technology.
For the fisheries sector, the government is prioritising blue economy-based programmes.
Development will focus on empowering facilities, strengthening downstream industries and conservation activities.
Jetty facilities at the SAFMA Fisheries Complex will be expanded to accommodate a targeted 20% increase in fish landings.
The livestock sector will also be strengthened under national and state strategic plans.
The focus will be on increasing ruminant self-sufficiency rates and ensuring food safety.
Musa also addressed the impact of global geopolitical tensions on the domestic economy.
He said these tensions could exert inflationary pressure on essential goods and food supplies.
This is due to increased oil costs and higher international logistics expenses.
Musa urged all parties in Sabah to remain calm and practise prudent spending.
The state government pledged to strengthen proactive measures to ensure development plans are implemented effectively.
“This effort is important to guarantee the well-being of the people, strengthen the state’s economic resilience and ensure continued stability,” he said.
