KOTA KINABALU – Sabah is being positioned as Malaysia's primary pineapple production center, with the federal government identifying thousands of hectares of land across the state for large-scale cultivation.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu announced that a 300-hectare pilot project in Sinua, developed in partnership with the Sabah Land Development Board (SLDB), will spearhead this agricultural initiative. Additional areas in Kota Marudu, Beaufort, and along major highways have also been earmarked for commercial pineapple farming.
Domestic and Export Potential
Speaking at the pre-launch of the 4th World Irrigation Forum (WIF4) at the Sabah International Convention Centre, Mohamad emphasized that the project aims to serve both local and international markets, boosting Sabah's agro-economic value.
"This venture will enhance the state's agricultural output while creating export opportunities," he said.
Agreements Signed for Agro-Industry Growth
The event also saw the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and Memorandums of Agreement (MoAs) related to:
✔ Edible bird’s nest exports to China
✔ Pineapple cultivation development
These agreements are expected to expand Malaysia’s high-value agro-product market.
World Irrigation Forum to Address Global Challenges
Scheduled at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, WIF4 will convene leaders, experts, and policymakers from 24 countries to tackle pressing issues such as:
- Climate change impacts on agriculture
- Modernization of irrigation systems
- Sustainable water management
Mohamad highlighted that the forum, expected to draw over 1,000 participants from 30+ countries, will feature:
✔ 100+ presentations across four sub-themes
✔ High-Level Advisory Group Meeting to draft policy recommendations
✔ Global roadmap for irrigation’s role in food security
"This forum will bridge scientific research and field experience while fostering international cooperation," he said.
Embracing Technology for Agri-Food Growth
The ministry is promoting precision agriculture and IoT-based smart irrigation to modernize farming. Mohamad urged stakeholders to adopt innovative practices for efficient water use and sustainable production.
Also present were Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup and Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Seri Isham Ishak.