BINTULU: Sarawak will expand the successful AgriHub model introduced in Gedong to more strategic locations across the state to strengthen sustainable agricultural development and food security.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative has demonstrated how research, innovation and close collaboration with local communities can improve agricultural productivity while supporting Sarawak’s long-term agri-food agenda.
“Building on the encouraging progress achieved in Gedong, the AgriHub approach will continue to be extended to other strategic locations, supporting Sarawak’s broader agenda for sustainable agricultural development,” he said when officiating the 3rd Congress on Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security (COSAFS) 2026 here today (Aug 3).
He stated that developing human capital remains equally important in ensuring the successful transformation of the state’s agri-food sector.
The establishment of the School of Veterinary and Animal Science (SVAS) will strengthen local capacity in veterinary medicine, animal health and livestock development, supporting Sarawak’s long-term aspiration of building a resilient agri-food sector.
Abang Johari pointed out that Sarawak’s vast continental shelf is a valuable resource with significant potential to expand the state’s fisheries industry and support sustainable food production.
Achieving Sarawak’s aspiration of becoming a sustainable agri-food hub requires strong partnerships among academia, industry, government and local communities.
“The exchange of scientific knowledge, innovative ideas and practical experiences is essential if we are to address increasingly complex agricultural challenges,” he said.
Abang Johari said events such as COSAFS 2026 provide an important platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, policy dialogue, technology transfer and international networking, with the potential to shape future agricultural research and strengthen industry partnerships.
AgriHub@Gedong, located in Kampung Lubok Punggor, is a smart agriculture innovation centre spearheaded by Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus (UPMKB) to promote good agricultural practices, modern farming technologies and the transformation of paddy cultivation.
