Sabahan receives Asean poverty eradication award for empowering community through modern agriculture

BANGKOK, DEC 12, 2025: Sabahan farmer Gerald Wong (second right) receives Asean Rural Development and Poverty Eradication Leadership Award here. Present is Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (second left). Photo courtesy of Gerald Wong

BANGKOK: A Sabahan has brought pride to Malaysia after being honoured with the prestigious 7th Asean Rural Development and Poverty Eradication Leadership Award in Bangkok, Thailand.

Gerald Wong, the founder and chief executive officer of Farm Tokou, was recognised for his outstanding leadership in rural development, placing both Sabah and Malaysia alongside leading figures from across the region.

He is one of 20 award recipients representing the 10 Asean member states.

The biennial award acknowledges individuals who have shown exceptional leadership in advancing rural development and poverty alleviation.

Gerald earned the honour for his sustained grassroots work since 2018, empowering rural communities through modern agriculture.

Through Farm Tokou, he has introduced innovative farming methods such as hydroponics, aquaponics and technology-driven agriculture, supported by skills training and community-based economic development initiatives that have helped generate sustainable additional income for villagers.

He said the achievement belongs to the rural communities who have been central to every programme carried out.

“This award is not just about me. It is a recognition of rural communities who dared to change, of youths choosing agriculture as their path forward, and of all partners who believe that rural development must be inclusive and dignified,” he said in a statement.

Since establishing Farm Tokou, Gerald has championed agriculture not only as a food production activity but as a platform for social advancement.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2025/10/1284997/sabah-og-man-turns-agriculture

Various community farming projects have been implemented in several rural districts across Sabah, involving hundreds of participants and gradually shifting perceptions of agriculture, especially among younger people who once viewed the sector as unattractive.

“We believe agriculture is not just about food — it is about dignity, opportunity and the future of rural communities,” he added.

The award ceremony was attended by senior Asean leaders, including Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.