Agriculture now lucrative, tech-driven sector for youth

New Straits Times

2 days ago

GOPENG: Agriculture is no longer viewed merely as a traditional livelihood but has evolved into a lucrative sector offering high-income potential and modern opportunities.
Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the agriculture and agri-food sector remains vibrant and promising, particularly for the younger generation.
"The issue of ageing farmers is not unique to our country; it is a challenge faced globally.
"The ministry has several initiatives to attract more young people to venture into agriculture," he told reporters after attending the closing ceremony of the Perak Fama Fest 2025.
The event was officiated by Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad at RTC Gopeng here today.
He was commenting on Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof's remarks that there is a need to rejuvenate the agriculture sector by attracting more participation from the younger generation.
This follows the findings of the 2024 Agriculture Census, which revealed that 458,395 agricultural operators are aged 60 and above; 326,287 are between the ages of 46 and 59; and 224,147 are aged between 15 and 45.
Arthur also outlined several initiatives by the ministry to attract more youth into agriculture.
"Our first initiative is expanding market opportunities through programmes like Fama Fest. This not only helps farmers market their products effectively but also highlights the sector's high-income potential.
"Secondly, we are introducing modern farming methods. We encourage farmers to adopt technology and innovation rather than relying solely on conventional practices.
"This approach not only enhances productivity but also appeals to young people by integrating elements like manufacturing, maintenance, and operations into the agricultural value chain," he added.
He said other initiatives include providing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) courses.
"The ministry offers fully funded TVET programmes in areas such as livestock, fisheries, and vegetable cultivation. These courses include accommodation and daily allowances to support participants," he said.
He also emphasised the need for collaboration with state governments to ensure adequate funding and land availability to support young farmers in expanding and developing the agriculture sector.
"Only through collaboration can we empower the next generation to lead the agriculture industry into the future," he said.
Commenting on the event, Arthur said that Perak has been a key pillar of the Fama Fest programme, now in its seventh year.
"Last year, our sales target for Perak Fama Fest was RM2 million. Due to the overwhelming response, we surpassed that target with RM2.6 million in sales.
"This year, we've set a higher target of RM3 million. With 210 exhibitors participating over five days, we are confident of achieving this goal," he added.
He added that Perak typically contributes the largest share of sales to the national Fama Fest programme, accounting for about 30 per cent of total sales last year.
"This year, our target is RM6 million nationwide for the entire Fama Fest series," he said, adding that the festival will continue in other states, including Sabah, Selangor, and Negri Sembilan.