By Olivia Miwil
KOTA KINABALU: Gerald Wong took an unusual path from the oil and gas (O&G) sector into modern agriculture.
The Sino-Kadazan man, 38, began his career in oil and gas in 2010, a field he described as stable and lucrative.
But by 2018, what started as backyard farming to feed his family sparked a bigger interest. He began to see agriculture not just as a hobby, but as a professional and profitable pursuit.
That same year, as the government promoted agricultural modernisation through technology and the Internet of Things (IoT), Wong made the bold decision to leave his job.
"I realised over time that running my own business could have a bigger impact — both for myself and my community."
He went on to set up Farm Tokou, a social enterprise focused on sustainable income and job creation for Sabah's rural youth.
To date, the initiative has expanded to districts including Telupid, Sook, Papar, Penampang, Kudat and Ranau, involving more than 100 participants and generating RM432,000 in side income over two years.
Wong has also set higher standards for workers' welfare. Farm Tokou adopted minimum wage hikes ahead of national timelines, and as of September this year, raised its minimum salary to RM2,000. Staff also received a minimum 17 per cent salary increase.
"I chose to take this step because I believe that when staff feel valued, they will be willing to put in more effort — not just performing tasks but also participating in the collective effort to develop this company."
Beyond farming, Farm Tokou has extended its role in the community. In partnership with Yayasan Hasanah, it organised flood relief missions in Penampang last year and Beaufort this year, benefiting more than 600 recipients.
"The true proof of effectiveness in an individual or a collective lie in how much they give back to the community."
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