KOTA KINABALU: During the announcement of the State Budget 2025 today, Finance Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun emphasised the Government’s ongoing commitment to the development of three key sectors driving the state’s economic growth: agriculture, industry, and tourism.
A total allocation of RM838.42 million has been designated for these sectors. In light of current challenges such as regional geopolitical threats, global climate change, and an uncertain global economic landscape, there is a heightened focus on the Agricultural Sector to ensure food security for the people of Sabah. For the year 2025, the Sabah Government plans to intensify its efforts in this area with a substantial allocation of RM610.85 million.
Specifically, RM521.37 million will be allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry, along with its associated departments. Of this amount, RM373.24 million is earmarked for operational expenditures and various assistance programmes aimed at supporting farmers, fishermen, and breeders. The overarching goal is to enhance four primary subsectors: crops, livestock, fisheries and aquaculture, and rubber commodities.
The Department of Agriculture will receive a total of RM138.49 million, focusing on programmes and activities that align with the Food Security Policy and the Third Sabah Agricultural Policy. These initiatives aim to ensure robust food supply chains, reduce dependency on food imports, safeguard the well-being of the populace, and address global challenges.
In alignment with the budget’s second pillar—promoting inclusive and equitable development—special attention will be given to paddy farmers and smallholders. The Incentives for Paddy Field Cultivation will continue next year, with an increase from RM18 million to RM26 million. This subsidy, set at RM494.00 per hectare, to benefit approximately 22,500 farmers annually.
Additionally, the rehabilitation of 438 hectares of abandoned rice fields in the districts of Papar, Tuaran, and Sook is projected to yield an average rice production of 2,190 metric tonnes per planting season. This initiative is expected to meet the rice demand for 15,330 Sabahans per season, based on an average consumption of 90 kilograms per person per year.
Furthermore, the implementation of the commercial-oriented Crop Development Programme will positively impact 2,266 participants across a total area of 3,539 hectares. This programme is anticipated to generate a monthly income of at least RM4,000.00 for participants, thereby helping to keep them above the poverty line.-BNN
