KOTA KINABALU: Efforts to expand quality farming practices through the Malaysian Good Agricultural Practices (MyGAP) certification must be intensified to ensure food safety and enhance the value of local produce.
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Jamawi Jaafar said the success of Owan’s Farm, a fertigation and hydroponic operator in Kampung Buang Sayang, Papar, which recently obtained MyGAP certification, should serve as a model for other growers.
He said the certification demonstrates that the farm’s produce meets strict standards, including minimal use of chemicals and environmentally friendly practices.
“This means the produce complies with good agricultural practices, including controlled use of pesticides, making it safer for consumption and more environmentally sustainable,” he said during a visit to the farm on Monday.
Jamawi, who is also Melalap assemblyman, said such approaches should be expanded and adopted as a benchmark by other agricultural players in Sabah.
“We need to grow this and educate consumers to choose food sources certified by the Department of Agriculture or the ministry,” he said, adding that raising awareness on food quality and safety is an ongoing effort.
He said the ministry would continue supporting local entrepreneurs, particularly in hydroponic and fertigation sectors, and plans to convene more industry players in Sabah for engagement sessions.
“This will help farmers market their produce at better prices compared with traditional methods,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jamawi said biosecurity measures are being strengthened to safeguard the local agriculture industry, especially against imported produce.
“We have tightened enforcement, but smuggling activities still occur, leading to an influx of cheaper imported agricultural products that affect local farmers’ income,” he said.
He stressed the need for closer cooperation among enforcement agencies, including Customs, the General Operations Force, Marine Police and the police, to curb such activities.
“Coordinated efforts are crucial to ensure food quality while protecting the livelihoods of local farmers in Sabah,” he said.
Also present were Owan’s Farm chairman Datuk Haji Awang Buhtaman Haji Awang Mahmun, MAFFI deputy permanent secretary I Awang Dzulkernain Awang Hassan, and Agriculture Department deputy director Jackson R. Jaimi.
Ends.
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