By WU VUIDE
KIULU: Kiulu has the potential to emerge as a key hill paddy production area in Sabah, leveraging its hilly terrain and vast agricultural land, said Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Speaking at the “Jelajah Kebun Dapur” programme here, he called on the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry (MAFFI) to explore Kiulu’s potential as a strategic hub for hill paddy cultivation.
The programme, organised by the Kiulu Sub-District Office in collaboration with the Kiulu Assemblyman’s Office and supported by MAFFI, was officiated by Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.
“I strongly believe that with the support and guidance from MAFFI, Kiulu has the potential to become one of Sabah’s key hill paddy-producing areas while creating new opportunities for agro-tourism and community-based tourism,” said Joniston, who is also Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister.
He said the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security had already identified several areas, including Kampung Tomis Jaya and Tomis Mangi Pangi in Kiulu, for consideration under the Ministry’s Hill Paddy Assistance Scheme.
To support future planning, Joniston said he would seek the cooperation of all Kampung Development and Security Committee chairmen in Kiulu to compile data on villagers interested in venturing into hill paddy cultivation and the total land area suitable for development.
“Any proposed development must be data-driven to ensure effective planning, targeted support and proper implementation,” he said.
Joniston, who also chairs the Sabah Tourism Board, said agriculture and tourism had been identified as viable means the strengthen the economic well-being of Kiulu communities.
Recognising the importance of agricultural infrastructure in unlocking the area’s potential, he said a significant portion of his annual assemblyman allocation had been channelled towards improving access to farming areas.
“From last year until this year, approximately RM3 million has been allocated for the construction and upgrading of around 90 agricultural roads, benefiting nearly 2,000 farmers and opening access to almost 5,000 acres of agricultural land,” he said.
Joniston also said Kiulu was also expanding its agro-tourism potential and would soon enter into a Memorandum of Collaboration with Cittaslow-listed township of Maija in the Pingtung province in Taiwan to facilitate knowledge and experience exchange in sustainable rural development.
Cittaslow is an international network that recognises communities committed to sustainable development, preservation of local identity and improving quality of life, with Kiulu expected to become the first Cittaslow-recognised destination in Malaysia.
Recognised by the State Government as a model for rural and community-based tourism, Kiulu currently has more than 80 tourism operators offering various nature-based and community-driven experiences.
Joniston and Jamawi with others at the programme.
