BINTULU: Sarawak is stepping up efforts to transform its agriculture sector into a modern, high-income industry by harnessing artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology and renewable energy to strengthen long-term food security.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said innovation will be the cornerstone of the state’s agricultural transformation under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), with technology playing a key role in boosting productivity while ensuring sustainable development.
“Our aspiration is to transform agriculture into a modern, technology-driven and high-income industry through innovation, digital transformation, precision agriculture, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, automation, renewable energy integration, and sustainable resource management.
“The transformation is not merely about producing more food, but doing so sustainably by protecting forests, conserving biodiversity and managing natural resources responsibly for future generations,” he said when officiating at the 3rd Congress on Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security (COSAFS) 2026 today (Aug 3).
Food systems around the world are facing unprecedented challenges arising from climate change, resource scarcity, geopolitical uncertainties, biodiversity loss and changing consumer demands, making innovation increasingly vital.
At the same time, rapid technological advancement is creating new possibilities to transform agriculture into a smarter, more resilient and sustainable sector.
Sarawak’s vision extends beyond food production, with agriculture serving as a driver of food security, quality employment, rural economic prosperity and environmental conservation.
Abang Johari stated that data and technology must go hand in hand to improve food production.
“It is the belief of the Sarawak government that you have to combine data and technology together.
“Data is a very important input for us to progress further through innovation and therefore, efficient production of food for the community and the world at large,” he said.
The four-day congress, themed “Feeding the Future, Fostering Sustainable Food”, brings together researchers, academicians, policymakers and industry players from around the world to discuss sustainable agriculture, resilient food systems and food security.
