New Sabah agriculture minister Jamawi Jaafar pledges to boost youth involvement and reduce import dependency to strengthen the state’s food security.
KOTA KINABALU: Newly appointed Sabah Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Datuk Jamawi Jaafar has pledged to attract more young people to the sector.
He aims to position Sabah as a leading food-producing state and strengthen its food security.
Jamawi said improving Sabah’s self-sufficiency, particularly in rice and other imported food crops, will be a top priority.
He also plans to engage smallholders, rural farmers, fisheries entrepreneurs and women to ensure their perspectives are included in development planning.
“I want to gather as much input as possible so we can diversify our efforts while shaping the ministry’s vision and mission for the next five years,” he told reporters.
The Melalap state assemblyman was sworn in by Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu.
Jamawi emphasised a commitment to sustainable development and transformation, focusing on increasing production and reducing import dependency.
“InsyaAllah, with the trust placed in me and the dedication of all ministry staff, I am confident we will achieve meaningful progress in this sector over the next five years,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor for entrusting him with the ministry.
