SIBU (Feb 14): The Sarawak Agrofest in Bintulu recorded an impressive RM6.44 million in sales and drew 811,544 visitors, underscoring the rapid growth of the state’s agricultural sector and its strong public support.
Sarawak Department of Agriculture director Dominic Chunggat said the achievement marked the highlight of a series of Agrofest programmes held in five other locations including Limbang, Pakan, Serian, Spaoh and Subis throughout 2025.
“The five Agrofest events organised fully by the Sarawak Department of Agriculture in collaboration with strategic partners generated a total of RM2.39 million in sales and attracted 40,331 visitors.
“The Sarawak Agrofest in Bintulu, as the grand finale, achieved RM6.44 million in sales with a turnout of 811,544 visitors.
“This demonstrates the vast potential of the agri-food sector and the ability of the farming community to generate income through the platforms provided,” he said at the department’s appreciation dinner here last night.
Dominic stressed that Agrofest’s success was not measured solely by sales figures, but also by its role as a platform to expand market networks, promote local products and enhance farmers’ knowledge of agricultural technology and innovation.
He noted that Sarawak’s agricultural landscape has evolved from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture, and is now moving towards modern, technology-driven and data-based practices.
“The department’s role is not merely to implement programmes and projects, but to serve as a strategic link between government policies and the needs of the people.
“We not only listen to the farming community, but also provide continuous guidance and support to farmers and industry players,” he said.
He acknowledged that the sector faces challenges such as climate change, labour shortages, rising input costs and the urgent need to adopt modern and sustainable farming practices.
Dominic called on all department personnel to remain committed and adaptable in line with the state’s aspiration to become a leader in modern agriculture in the region.
He added that efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector are aligned with the state’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which aims to position Sarawak as a net food exporter by 2030.
In a related development, he revealed that the Sarawak Department of Agriculture has been listed among the Top 9 finalists for the Gold Award in the Department category in conjunction with the 2025 Public Service Day under the Sarawak Public Service Quality Award (AKPANS), a prestigious recognition of excellence in governance and service delivery.
“Transformation of the agricultural sector will not be achieved without the active participation of all parties.
“With teamwork and the courage to innovate, I am confident we can achieve even greater success in the future,” he said.
Also present were State Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Deputy Minister Datuk Martin Ben, and Sarawak Veterinary Services Department director Datu Dr Adrian Susin Ambud.
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