SARIKEI: The Sarawak government is set to provide machinery to the State Farmers’ Organisation Sarawak (SFO) to support paddy entrepreneurs in adopting modern farming methods and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative aims to promote efficiency and innovation in the agriculture sector while creating opportunities for graduates and technical professionals.
“We can provide machinery to the farmers’ associations, which can then lease them to small entrepreneurs.
“For instance, a hectare of paddy can be planted within an hour using a machine, allowing it to be shared with others.
“The government will procure the machinery, but it will be managed by the farmers’ associations,” he said after officiating at the Onemas Agriculture Sdn Bhd Rice Processing Plant in Sungai Padi, Meradong, today (Jan 16).
Abang Johari expressed confidence that the introduction of machinery would transform the farming industry by boosting productivity and creating new job opportunities.
He noted that machinery is already in use in Gedong and said this approach would enable agricultural entrepreneurs to thrive.
“Graduates can also venture into this field as higher earnings are possible with modern equipment. Additionally, technical professionals will be needed to operate and maintain the machines,” he added.
The Premier acknowledged that achieving the target would take around five years, as education and adaptation require time, especially for those unfamiliar with such equipment.
He stressed the importance of educating farmers on the effective use of machinery before large-scale implementation.
“We have set a target to achieve at least self-sufficiency by 2030, as we aim to shift the community’s mindset towards adopting new methods and technology.
“We need to teach people how to use these machines. For example, there are different machines for ploughing and planting,” he said.
Earlier in his address, he highlighted that modern farming techniques are simple, requiring farmers only to operate the machines, which automate most tasks.
He emphasised the need for the community to adapt to new methods, noting that these techniques are learnable.
“Sarawakians are not naive; once they try, they learn fast. Our connectivity has advanced, and our agriculture must follow suit.
“With the new generation, who adapt quickly to changes, I am confident we can modernise farming in Sarawak,” he said.
