SERIAN: The Serian Agrofest 2025, scheduled from May 23 to 25 at Dataran Mutiara Tebedu, will mark the first time this agricultural event is held in the division.
It is part of a series of roadshows leading up to the Sarawak Agrofest.
Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Datuk Martin Ben said that the event aims to introduce modern agricultural practices to farmers and promote entrepreneurship within the farming community.
“With the involvement of all relevant agencies, especially those in agriculture and livestock, we hope to expose those involved in agriculture to modern ways of doing things — using technology and mechanisation, moving away from traditional methods,” he said during a press conference yesterday (April 28).
Martin added that the event also encourages farmers to think beyond traditional roles.
“We hope our farmers will also think about becoming entrepreneurs, rather than just farmers,” he added.
Serian Agrofest is targeting around 4,000 visitors and is expected to generate around RM100,000 in sales. It will also attract visitors from neighbouring regions in Indonesia, particularly Kalimantan Barat.
Martin, who is also Kedup assemblyman, said that cross-border participation is expected to increase the event’s turnout, as demonstrated by the recent Limbang Agrofest.
“Just last week, we had an Agrofest in Limbang. I was told there was a significant group from Brunei, and sales increased due to their attendance. We hope the same will happen with our neighbours from Kalimantan Barat,” he said.
The event will feature exhibitions by government agencies, agro-based product sales, technical courses on coffee, black pepper, and oil palm cultivation, as well as demonstrations on plant grafting and fish breeding.
Visitors can also look forward to cultural programmes, including the Aco Lepa Birami Gawai event, the 10th edition of Anugerah Carta Lagu Bidayuh, and a concert on May 24.
Martin encouraged the public to attend and experience the Agrofest atmosphere, which also serves as a lead-up to the Gawai Dayak celebration.
“Come and see, experience it. I believe our farmers, officers, and assemblymen here will help make it an eventful and meaningful one for all. Experience the Bidayuh way of doing things.
“Since the event will take place one week before Gawai, ethnic food will be available to showcase special Bidayuh dishes,” he added.
The official launch of Serian Agrofest will take place on May 23 at 3 pm, which will be officiated by Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.
A Gawai ‘Nginyon’ parade featuring traditional ethnic attire will begin at 2 pm, ahead of the launch ceremony.
The event will also include the symbolic handover of the Agrofest baton to Betong Division, the next host for the upcoming Spaoh Agrofest.
