By Shyamimi Husna
LUNDU: The implementation of the Opar Metropolitan Food Cluster (MCP) pilot project, incorporating smart technology from the Netherlands, is expected to enhance the agricultural industry and generate income, reaching international marketing standards.
Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said, the first project in Southeast Asia will also provide numerous benefits to the local community, especially the farmers in the area, including the potential boost to tourism.
“Although this MCP project will only involve more than 200 acres of land, it will provide for development in various aspects in this area,” he said.
He said this during the Opar MFC Project Introduction Programme here on Saturday (June 23).
Dr Rundi further stressed on the crucial role played by small-scale farmers in driving economic growth and the government’s commitment to providing support and opportunities to foster a robust and resilient food security sector in Sarawak.
“In fact, to advance the horticulture sector in Sarawak, comprehensive training and programmes need to be carried out to equip farmers with the skills and knowledge to adopt modern techniques, manage resources effectively and overcome challenges, he said.
The MFC concept, he said, with its central focus on enhancing the food safety system in Sarawak, will contribute to strengthening and modernising the agricultural sector in the state.
At the same time, Dr Rundi said that the agricultural and plantation products from the MCP would generate income for the local population, given their anticipated higher quality.
“Therefore, I hope that the pilot project would yield positive outcomes for the people of Sarawak as a whole,” he said.
Earlier, on January 17, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Sarawak government and MFC through Agro Machtigen Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
The MFC encompasses three main components, namely agro parks, regional production centres, and consolidation centres.
