KOTA KINABALU: Farmers are encouraged to switch to organic fertilisers as an alternative to reduce costs for the imported agricultural products.
Sabah Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said that the prolonged El Nino weather phenomenon is also expected to affect fertiliser supply which could lead to increased production costs.
He said a large portion of the country’s fertiliser supply depends on imports, including from China and countries involved in global conflicts.
“When exports of key fertiliser materials such as urea are reduced, it will lead to higher prices in the local market.
"I would like to encourage farmers to switch to organic fertilisers as an alternative to reduce costs," he said in a statement.
The Melalap assemblyman said that the Sabah Agriculture Department has implemented various training programmes to help farmers produce their own fertiliser from plant and food waste.
“I will continue to go to the ground and provide education to farmers, including through a special programme with entrepreneurs on April 12 in Karambunai.
“This is important to ensure crop yields remain good despite facing extreme weather challenges,” he said.
Sabah Meteorological Department has indicated that the hot and dry weather caused by the phenomenon is expected to persist until July.
“In these hot weather conditions, I urge the agricultural community, livestock breeders, fishermen and players in the food industry to be more cautious.
“Avoid open burning and refrain from clearing new land for now, as the risk of fires and declining yields is high."
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