Develop highlands into agricultural centres, says Jabu

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Jabu (second left) at the event in Kuching. — Photo by Chimon Upon

Jabu (second left) at the event in Kuching. — Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING: Deputy Chief Minister who is also Minister of Modernisation of Agriculture, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu believed it was high time Sarawak set up agricultural centres in her highlands to ensure abundant supply of fruits and vegetables in the state.

This was because due to climate change and natural disaster, highland areas that would usually supply vegetables in the country such as Kundasang and Cameron Highlands, could no longer cope with the demand.

He warned that the country might have do depend on imported vegetables and fruits when supplies dwindle in the future.

“Sarawak can help save that situation for the country. We can have our own fruit and vegetable growing areas like Kundasang and Cameron Highlands,” Jabu said at the launch of the Bioeconomy Day organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) and BiotechCorp at a local hotel here.

He would discuss the matter with Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem and Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Jabu said the federal government had discovered three agriculture-related industries for the state, namely the breeding of fishes such as ‘empurau’, ‘terubok’, prawns/shrimps and crabs.

“We have a long coastline which is suitable for this project. Sarawak should take advantage of it,” he said.