By MOHD IZHAM BIN HASHIM
KOTA KINABALU: In a significant step towards enhancing fertilizer management, the State Legislative Assembly has passed the Agriculture Fertilizer Bill 2025, aiming to establish a comprehensive framework to improve fertilizer quality controls and promote the adoption of best agricultural practices.
Introduced by Agriculture and Food Industries Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, the bill seeks to regulate the manufacture, import, export, and sale of fertilizers, supplements, and raw materials used in their production. Its primary objective is to address long-standing issues with substandard fertilizers, enhance agricultural productivity, and safeguard the environment.
“This bill is set to mark the beginning of a revolution in Sabah’s agricultural sector, ensuring that it grows sustainably and remains competitive.
“It is time for a stronger, systematic, and effective regulatory framework,” said Jeffrey.
The legislation tackles key challenges such as the prevalence of counterfeit fertilizers, inconsistent standards, and inadequate regulations, which have led to reduced crop yields and environmental degradation.
Jeffrey, who is Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I noted, an estimated RM50-80 million will be allocated for the law’s implementation, focusing on monitoring systems, farmer training, and research in the fertilizer sector. The bill aims to protect farmers, ensure food security, and promote environmentally responsible practices.
In response to suggestions from Kemabong Assemblyman Rubin Balang about establishing local fertilizer production and research, Jeffrey noted that such initiatives could be realized through collaboration with both local and foreign investors.
He further emphasized that the bill would improve the monitoring and quality control of fertilizers, ultimately helping farmers increase yields and productivity. “This law will allow us to better control fertilizer quality and optimize its use to support our farmers,” he said, addressing Balang’s query about ensuring a sustainable supply of controlled fertilizers.
A key provision of the bill is the mandatory registration of all fertilizers and related materials under Section 5(1). Non-compliance will result in significant penalties, including fines up to RM50,000 for first offenses and RM100,000 for repeat violations, along with imprisonment of up to one year for first offenses and two years for repeat offenses (Section 5(2)).
The Sabah Agriculture Department will oversee enforcement, ensuring that only high-quality and safe products are used in the state’s agricultural industry.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to promote farmer education through training programs focused on the correct and environmentally responsible use of fertilizers. These programs aim to raise awareness of sustainable farming practices and encourage the use of organic and biological fertilizers to maximize crop yields while minimizing environmental harm.
With the passage of this bill, Sabah’s agricultural sector is set to experience a revolution in fertilizer management, fostering greater sustainability, improved productivity, and enhanced food security—marking a significant step toward a more resilient and environmentally-conscious farming industry.
