KUCHING, Nov 6 (Bernama) -- Sarawak needs more agricultural researchers to ensure the sector continues to grow efficiently and sustainably.
Sarawak Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said research plays a crucial role in enhancing productivity and improving yields.
“If we talk about agriculture, everyone can do it, but to achieve good yields, we must prioritise quality research,” he said.
“For example, in aquaculture, researchers can explore ways to improve fish fry quality, while in crop production, efforts can focus on developing better fruit seedlings. I hope the Sarawak Department of Agriculture (DOA) will look into these aspects. Currently, DOA has 37 researchers, while in aquaculture we have only four, so there is still a long way to go,” he said after attending the Sarawak Agriculture Institute’s 20th Convocation Ceremony here today.
Dr Rundi said the Sarawak government is exploring ways to attract more young people to venture into the agriculture sector.
“To achieve this, we need to create a more conducive environment supported by new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) as well as smart and precision farming. With these technologies, farmers do not necessarily have to be on-site, as they can monitor and control the application of fertilisers, water and other inputs remotely,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
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