The influx of cheaper smuggled agricultural products is affecting the income and livelihoods of local farmers in Sabah, according to state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.
Speaking after a visit to Owan’s Farm, a fertigation and hydroponic facility in Papar on Monday (May 4), Jamawi said stronger cooperation between enforcement agencies is needed to curb illegal import activities that are undercutting local produce.
“We need more cooperation with security and enforcement agencies such as Customs, the General Operations Force, Marine Police and the police to curb these illegal activities,” he said.
He added that integrated enforcement efforts are crucial to safeguarding the earnings of local agricultural producers across the state.
Jamawi also highlighted the importance of modern farming facilities such as Owan’s Farm in ensuring stable food production and consistent quality supply for consumers.
He said Sabah is also focusing on strengthening biosecurity measures for imported agricultural goods to better protect the local farming industry from unfair competition.
In addition, he urged for wider adoption of the Malaysian Good Agricultural Practices (MyGAP) certification, which ensures crops are produced under strict standards, including the responsible use of environmentally friendly and minimal chemicals.
“The certification proves that production is done in compliance with regulations. This should be a benchmark for all agropreneurs in Sabah,” he said.
Jamawi also stressed the need to raise public awareness on food safety, encouraging consumers to choose certified and verified produce from the Agriculture Department under the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.
He said the state government will continue to support local producers, particularly those involved in fertigation and hydroponic farming, as part of efforts to strengthen food security and boost the agricultural sector.
