KOTA KINABALU: Stronger cooperation between government agencies and industry players is vital for accelerating Sabah’s food security initiatives, the Agriculture Ministry (MAFFI) was told yesterday.
“It is hoped all Ministry departments and agencies can work as a team to achieve each other’s goals instead of competing against each other,” he said.
During his officiating speech at MAFFI’s annual dinner 2025 here yesterday, Jamawi attributed their various accomplishments and awards to the department’s commitment and professionalism in carrying out duties with integrity.
He noted that these successes were the result of collective effort, reflecting the department’s capability in driving the state’s agricultural development.
In addition to inter-agency cooperation, Jamawi called for the direct involvement of industry players and the public to strengthen food sovereignty. He specifically highlighted the empowerment of the ‘Kebun Dapur’ (Kitchen Garden) initiative, which is set for full-scale implementation next year alongside several new programs.
“The commitment shown by our staff must be maintained to ensure continuous excellence as we introduce these new initiatives,” he said.
The event also saw Jamawi and his wife, Datin Zainatunnisa Ibrahim, engaging with ministry staff and former directors in attendance.
Also present were Assistant Agriculture of Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Ruslan Muharam, Permanent Secretary Datuk Leonard Stephen Poyong, and Agriculture Department Director Datuk Jifrin Hj Mohamad, and Deputy Director of Agriculture, Zarinah Haji Ali. – Mohd Izham Bin Hashim
Jamawi giving the thumbs-up to the Ministry while wearing the hat presented to as a memento, witnessed by Ruslan (2nd from right), Leonard (left), and Jifron (second from left), and Zarinah (right).
