Banana processing centre for Kota Marudu – Ongkili
KOTA MARUDU: The agriculture industry here has moved a step forward through the application of modern technologies and exploitation of new crops into the sector.
Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili said with such development, there is huge potential in industrialising the agriculture sector and business.
Located in the northern part of Sabah, Kota Marudu’s agricultural economy is dependant mostly on oil palm, rubber, paddy, as well as fisheries, swiftlet, corn and sweet potatoes, to mention some.
“However, we expect the agriculture sector to gradually shrink in size with rapid development taking place in Kota Marudu as it gears to be the state’s economic growth centre of the north.
“Hence, it is vital to further enhance agriculture engagement in commercialising it, especially to lure a greater participation from small-time farmers,” he said, when launching the Agriculture Development Council for Kota Marudu Parliamentary meeting, here, yesterday.
He said that instead of focusing just on plantation, farmers should explore other value-added options such processing their crops for food products, such as banana or potato chips.
The Kota Marudu Member of Parliament said the government had approved the setting up of the Pisang Sabah Processing Centre to add value to the product to be turned into chips and flour.
“There is also a large potential in exploitation of the fishery sector, which is largely untapped,” he said, adding through participation in these industries, it would eliminate middlemen and add value to farmers’ crops.
At the event, Ongkili also received his appointment as the honorary president of the Kota Marudu Farmers Association.