Huang delivers his opening speech.
SARIKEI (Aug 15): The 4,196 smallholders overseeing planted areas of 12,877 hectares involving oil palm, rubber, cocoa and pepper, remain an important pillar of this district’s economy.
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii said the agro-commodities sector not only supported the income of these smallholders, but also contributed to the growth of economic activities in his constituency of Sarikei.
“As the member of Parliament for Sarikei, I am very pleased that this programme is being held here,” he said in his opening speech for the Madani Agrikomoditi Carnival at Dewan Sentral Sarikei yesterday.
Huang said the presence of Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad at the carnival was significant as it provided an opportunity for the leadership of the ministry and its agencies to better understand the aspirations and needs of the local community involved in the sector.
Adding on, Huang said looking ahead, the agro-commodities sector in Sarikei should have vast room to grow.
“Changes in technology, production methods and market demands offer new possibilities to increase productivity and produce higher-value products,” he said.
The federal deputy minister also stressed the importance of involving the younger generation in the future development of this sector.
“Our young people can leverage their exposure to technology, digital platforms and modern marketing approaches, while combining these with the experience and knowledge of the older generation.
“This can help introduce more modern management methods, strengthen digital marketing and bring local products to wider markets,” he said.
Huang expressed confidence that Sarikei could continue to progress in the agro-commodities sector through the combined strengths of smallholders, entrepreneurs, young people and the wider community.
“I am confident that Sarikei has the potential to continue advancing in the agro-commodities sector and strengthen its position as a productive area,” he said.
The Madani Agrikomoditi Carnival was organised by the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities.