Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom
KUCHING, Jan 14 - Sarawak's Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development (M-FICORD), Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, has urged the ministry's staff, especially the Sarawak Agriculture Department, to strengthen initiatives towards the development of a more robust agro-based industry.
Responding to the recommendation of the Sarawak's Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg regarding the state government's direction through the 13th Malaysia Plan, M-FICORD is also now focusing on strengthening service delivery and more effective and efficient project implementation.
In terms of the agro-based industry, the Sarawak's Agriculture Department needs to prioritize the development of agro entrepreneurs based on product diversity from upstream to downstream, in addition to increasing the marketability of products widely.
He added that this involves continuous training and guidance for local entrepreneurs, while also encouraging innovation, the use of technology and modern agricultural methods to increase production and ensure quality products for market.
He hopes that the Sarawak's Agriculture Department will continue to play a major role in improving the people's economy through the agro-based industry while contributing to the food security initiative in the state.
Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi spoke at the opening of the Agro-Based Industry Division - Sarawak's Agriculture Department 2026 Dinner in Kuching.
Also present were M-FICORD Permanent Secretary, Datu Sirai Daha and Sarawak Agriculture Department Deputy Director (Development), Gilbert Igi who represented the Sarawak Agriculture Director, Dominic Chuggat.
