Seek collaborations with tech firms, agropreneurs advised
SIBU: Collaborations between local agricultural producers and technology companies can lead to the development of smart farming, as well as improvements in both yield and quality of the crops.
In stating this, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng says there are viable platforms that can help initiate such a collaboration involving those from the different sectors.
“The Sibu Local Industry Forum can initiate this.
“The establishment of this forum is meant as a platform for innovation where industry experts, entrepreneurs and government representatives can discuss the latest technologies, trends and also experiences.
“The forum can also promote cross-industry collaboration, involving different sectors through the setting-up of joint research and development (R&D) projects.
“For example, a collaboration between a local agropreneur and a technology company can lead to the development of smart agricultural solutions, improving both yield and quality,” he said in his opening speech for the Sibu Local Industrial Forum 2024 at a hotel here yesterday.
Organised by Upriver Event, the programme registered a total of 382 participants.
Adding on, Chieng said the government could incentivise local businesses so as to encourage them to put in practice a culture of innovation.
“The support can come in the forms of tax incentives, innovation funds, and technology transfer.
“The innovation funds can help local companies in undertaking technological upgrades and planning for market expansion.
“As such, the industries in Sibu should seize these opportunities,” said the assemblyman.