Korean organic farming technology introduced to Sabahans
KOTA KINABALU: An agriculture training was held in Luyang recently, to introduce Sabahans a Korean organic farming technology for lower cost farming as well as to transfer the knowledge of cassava farming potential in Sabah.
Organised by Panasaran Pelangi Sdn Bhd (PPSB), the Korean and Jadam Organic Farming Training was attended by 56 participants including locals all the way from Kota Marudu, Sandakan, Tawau, Keningau and even some international participants from Indonesia and Singapore.
Managing director of PPSB, George Chong, said fertilisers and pesticides are among the very high cost items in agriculture.
“What can be done to reduce these costs will definitely help farmers to get higher profits and sustain their lives through agriculture.
“The use of organic fertilisers will result in a healthier food source for consumers as well as a higher price for crops by farmers.
“Therefore, the initiative by PPSB to sponsor a large part of this training by award-winning coach Andry Lim from the Philippines is greatly appreciated andq welcomed by the Sabah State government,” he said.
PPSB has a cassava starch mill in Kudat with a capacity to process 200 tons of cassava daily to produce 50 tons of starch and 12 tons of animal feed.
The operation of the mill will requires 3,000 acres of cassava to be planted creating more than 1,000 jobs and other spinoff business opportunities for the northern areas of Sabah which are listed as amongst the poorest in Malaysia.
Assistent Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Peto Galim launched the training.
During his speech, he mentioned that agriculture is the main pillar of the country’s food security and economy.
He also stated that in order to make this sector a success, joint efforts must be done to create a spirit of togetherness among the agricultural community.
“This training marks the beginning of a new phase in efforts to increase productivity, sustainability and efficiency in agriculture.
“The farmers, agricultural extension workers, and all parties have worked hard to make our agricultural sector stronger and more innovative and they deserve to be appreciated.
“The training is not just an exercise, but a proactive step in facing the challenges of increasing nutrition and plant growth.
“The seminar also brings with it a great opportunity to improve skills and knowledge in the field of fertiliser manufacturing, a very important aspect in increasing agricultural productivity.
“The efficient production of organic fertilisers is not only beneficial to farmers, but also plays a key role in maintaining the environment and soil sustainability,” he added.
From the training, Peto hoped that the participants are inspired to become agents of change in the agricultural community.