Dr Rundi (seated, centre) showing the SAF 2024 logo during the press conference. Also seen are his deputies (seated from left) Dr Abdul Rahman and Martin along with (standing from second left) Dr Adrian, Mawan and others.
KUCHING (May 24): Sarawak Agrofest (SAF) 2024 is expected to generate sales of RM5 million and attract around 450,000 visitors from all over the state, said Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.
According to the Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Minister (M-Ficord), the fifth edition of the SAF, which is set to take place at the Old Bintulu Airport site from July 12 to 22, will be held in conjunction with Sarawak Day and the Sarawak Department of Agriculture’s 100-year celebration.
“More than 200 exhibitors from the agricultural industry, agencies, entrepreneurs, corporate and private sectors including international players are participating in SAF 2024, which will be inaugurated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“The event will serve as a platform for product presentations and launches as well as agro-product promotions, demonstrations and competitions,” he added during a press conference at his office at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here yesterday.
Also present were M-Ficord deputy ministers Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail and Datuk Martin Ben, advisor at the Sarawak Premier’s Office (Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development) Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom and Sarawak Veterinary Services Department (JPVS) director Dr Adrian Susin Ambud.
Commenting further, Dr Rundi said this year’s theme for SAF is ‘Improving the Agro Sector, Empowering the Community’, which is in line with his ministry’’s vision to achieve a developed agricultural sector and rural economy by 2030.
“To improve our agro sector and empower our communities, agricultural development must focus on the commercialisation of the sector through greater collaboration with global, domestic and community partnerships, driven by data and innovation,” he said.
Touching on the event’s activities, he said SAF 2024 will integrate conferences, exhibitions and sales, investment promotion, food promotion and competition elements in a large agricultural festival through various sections.
“Among the activities are Sarawak Agrofest and DOA Sarawak 100-Year Celebration Pavilion, AgroTrade, AgroFresh, AgroTech, Agrolnput, Smart Farming, Peladang e-Shop, Sarawak Aqua, Zoo Vet and Dapur Sarawak (halal and non-halal).
“Visitors will also be entertained with performances by popular local artistes, karaoke competitions, Ratu Agrofest 2024, Agrofest Run, lucky draws, cat shows and treasure hunts,” he said.
On another matter, Dr Rundi said in conjunction with SAF 2024, M-Ficord is collaborating with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) to organise the second Sustainable Agriculture and Food Safety Congress (COSAFS).
“COSAF 2024 will take place at Hotel Parkcity Everly, Bintulu from July 10 to 12,” he informed.
For more information on SAF 2024, individuals can visit its official website at www.sarawak.agrofest.com.my or its Facebook page and Instagram page @sarawakagrofestmy.