Sabah to host Malaysia's premier agriculture showcase as HPPNK turns 50

Borneo Post

a day ago

There will be many interesting activities including Agriculture E-Games, immersive aquaculture and 3D aquarium exhibitions, the popular Agro MADANI Sale, and many other exciting highlights.
KUALA LUMPUR (July 31): The 'Hari Peladang, Penternak dan Nelayan Kebangsaan' (HPPNK) or National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen's Day this year has a deeper national significance as the event marks its 50th anniversary.
After three decades, the event makes its return to Sabah this year from Aug 1-3 starting at 9am until 10pm at the Sabah International Convention Centre in Kota Kinabalu.
Themed 'Kudrat Kami Menjamin Pertiwi', the event not only commemorates five decades of the agriculture sector's progress but also paves the way forward in reaffirming the nation's commitment to food security and agro-economic resilience.
The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, recently shared insights on the strategic significance of HPPNK 2025, its future-focused offerings, and the crucial role of food security in Malaysia's national development.
'This isn't just a celebration. HPPNK 2025 marks a turning point in how we view and value our agro-community. It is a moment to acknowledge their contributions, but also to invite the younger generation into the fold,' he said.
He said the 2025 edition of HPPNK will feature four key thematic zones: 'Agro Millenia', 'Cukup & Terjamin', 'Sejahtera MADANI', and 'Jualan & Keusahawanan'.
Each segment was curated to highlight not just the strength of Malaysia's agro-sector, but also the emerging opportunities within it.
'Agro Millenia' focuses on engaging youths through innovation and education. It features activities such as agricultural e-sports, farm-to-kitchen showcases, artisanal coffee appreciation, and entrepreneurship talks.
'We are reshaping the narrative. Agriculture is no longer about hardship; it's about innovation, opportunity, and technology,' Isham explained.
'Through 'Agro Millenia', we hope to show the younger generation that the future of farming is smart, profitable, and rewarding.'
In 'Cukup & Terjamin', visitors will experience Malaysia's most advanced agritechnologies and innovation.
These include smart irrigation systems, aquaculture innovations, drone farming, and real-time robotic monitoring.
One of the highlights of the technology and innovation segment is the opportunity for visitors to engage in hands-on agricultural experiences.
These include a combine harvester simulator, allowing them to immerse themselves in the realistic environment of operating a rice harvester during the harvesting season.
Visitors can also get up close with various livestock breeds, including top hybrid cattle, premium goat species, saga chickens, and even ponies.
'We are demonstrating that Malaysia is serious about building a self-reliant, resilient food system. Reducing our dependency on imported food is critical,' he said.
The 'Sejahtera MADANI' segment embraces the values of unity, sustainability, and dignity.
Exhibits will spotlight successful local farmers, fishermen, and breeders while presenting the nation's collaborative work through pavilions like the Asean Farmers Village and Sabah Pavilion.
In addition, there will be an award-giving and appreciation ceremony for successful farmers, breeders, and fishermen.
'We want to honour these unsung heroes with many of whom work tirelessly in remote communities who keep our food system alive and our economy turning,' Isham noted.
The 'Jualan & Keusahawanan' segment, which features over 136 booths from local agropreneurs, offering everything from ready-to-eat products to artisanal condiments and health drinks.
The popular 'Agro MADANI' Mega Sale returns with over 500 varieties of Malaysian dishes and essential goods sold at discounts of up to 30 per cent.
'For many small agropreneurs, this platform is their launchpad to wider markets. And for visitors, it's a chance to experience the diversity and richness of Malaysian food culture, all under one roof,' Isham said.
One standout attraction is the Coffee Island, featuring Sabah's local brews and top Malaysian coffee brands, allowing visitors to enjoy coffee tasting sessions in a relaxed setting.
There will also be a 'Happy Hour' sales which will see products sold at steep discounts.
The lead-up to HPPNK 2025 also featured two regional programmes which are 'Road to HPPNK Series 1 & 2' in Tawau and Sook, Sabah.
Isham said these events attracted over 30,000 visitors and generated hundreds of thousands of ringgit in agro-based sales.
'From the energy on the ground in Tawau to the community spirit in Sook, it's clear that the people here are deeply connected to the land and sea.'
Central to the event is the concept of food security.
Isham emphasised: 'History has taught us that no nation can truly be sovereign if it cannot feed itself. Food is about power, security and dignity. HPPNK 2025 is a reminder of that truth.'
'We must understand that food security is a strategic imperative. Whether in times of peace or crisis, a nation's strength is tied to its ability to produce and control its own food sources. Our farmers, breeders, and fishermen are our frontline defence in this regard.'
Beyond public celebration, HPPNK 2025 is designed to have a long-lasting impact.
From workshops and forums to digital learning hubs and business matchmaking, it offers valuable exposure for aspiring entrepreneurs and established agropreneurs alike.
The ministry expects more than 500,000 visitors over the three-day event, generating savings of up to RM3 million in household spending and strengthening local agro-industries.
Isham hoped that the public would not miss out on the event.
'Come and join us. This is a celebration of our people, our culture, and our future. HPPNK 2025 is where tradition meets technology, where the past 50 years inspire the next 50. It's time we stand together to support the hands that feed the nation.'
With its golden jubilee theme resonating across every segment, HPPNK 2025 promises not just a celebration, but a call to action for Malaysians to cherish, empower, and sustain the very people whose strength guarantees the wellbeing of our beloved Pertiwi.