By WU VUIDE
KOTA BELUD: The “Kitchen Farm” concept introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries (MAFFI) is expected to be launched early next year as a key initiative to expand rural community involvement in small-scale agricultural activities.
Its Minister, Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, said the initiative aims to provide villagers with opportunities to cultivate crops in their own home areas at minimal cost, directly benefiting their daily lives.
He explained that the concept is designed as a practical platform to reach as many people as possible, particularly farmers, smallholders, fishermen, and rural entrepreneurs who are predominantly involved in the agricultural sector.
He said discussions with the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary are ongoing to refine the implementation of the concept to ensure it is carried out in an organised and effective manner.
He said this when officiating the closing ceremony of the PMD Programme and Mini Rural Entrepreneurs Carnival at Dewan Terbuka Datuk Musbah Jamli.
Jamawi said that since the first day he assumed office as minister, his primary goal has been to assist rural communities and elevate the well-being of villagers who rely on agriculture as their source of income.
He also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to attend the event and meet directly with rural entrepreneurs, whom he described as having strong determination and a high drive to succeed in entrepreneurship.
He congratulated two state agricultural agencies, namely the Sabah Rubber Industry Board and the Sabah Land Development Board, for their proactive involvement in developing rural entrepreneurs.
Jamawi added that participants in the programme not only received equipment assistance valued at up to RM6,000 but also ongoing support, including guidance on marketing their products more effectively, including through digital platforms.
He said his background as a farmer and smallholder allows him to deeply understand the hardships, challenges, and needs of rural communities, whether as farmers, vendors, fishermen, retailers, or livestock breeders.
He intends to fully leverage this experience to develop rural communities, particularly in the agricultural sector, to improve the welfare and standard of living of the people.
Meanwhile, Jamawi hopes that continuous collaboration among relevant agencies and professionals can be strengthened to drive the development and well-being of rural communities.
He also expressed appreciation to all parties involved, including the ministry, implementing agencies, and the organising committee, for the successful execution of the programme.
Jamawi (centre), and his wife, Datin Zainatunnisa Ibrahim (right), visit the local rice exhibition booth.
