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Borneo Post
27-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
More farmers should venture into cocoa cultivation - CM
Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin (right) presents Dr Jeffrey with a token of appreciation. KOTA KINABALU (May 27): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor wants to see more farmers venturing into cocoa planting and expanding the 3,000 hectares of land already in cultivation in Sabah. He said there has been a surge in international demand for Malaysia's cocoa products, with export values hitting a record RM15.06 billion last year, three times that of 2023. 'We are proud that Sabah has played a pivotal role in this success, accounting for over 60 per cent of the nation's cocoa output. 'I am heartened that about 3,000 cocoa farmers in the districts of Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau and Kuamut have benefited,' he said at the Cocoa Gala Dinner held in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair 2025 (MICF 2025) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here on Tuesday night. His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I/ Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. Hajiji said this was a momentous occasion for Sabah and reflected the state's significant role in Malaysia's cocoa industry. He commended the Malaysian Cocoa Board for the exemplary efforts in driving this success. The Chief Minister hoped the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair (MICF) and gala dinner would bring about long-lasting benefits, from new partnerships and investments to increased global awareness of Sabah's strength, not only as the main cocoa-producing state in Malaysia, but as a destination for business, tourism and culture. 'We also express our heartfelt thanks to the international exhibitors and cocoa producers, to our local entrepreneurs and SMEs, to our academic institutions, and of course, to the many sponsors and partners, both from Malaysia and abroad, who have made MICF 2025 a success,' he said. Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin who was also at the dinner attended by about 1,400 attendees, extended warm greetings on behalf of the Ministry and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the festival's overwhelming success. 'It is a great honour for me to represent the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities Malaysia at tonight's event,' he said in his opening remarks. Chan lauded the strong collaboration between federal and state entities, highlighting Sabah's vital role in Malaysia's cocoa industry. 'Sabah has always been an essential part of Malaysia's cocoa industry, and we are proud to hold this festival here,' he said, extending his gratitude to the Sabah State Government for their unwavering support. The Member of Parliament for Kota Kinabalu welcomed both local and international guests of the event saying, 'I am delighted that MICF 2025 is being held here in Kota Kinabalu, as it provides a valuable boost to our local economy.' He underscored his personal involvement in the event's journey, from the pre-launch in January to officiating the Choco Rush flag-off on Sunday morning (May 25). 'The Choco Rush was a meaningful initiative that highlighted the nutritional and energising value of cocoa and chocolate as food and beverages,' he noted, adding that the event drew more than 1,000 running enthusiasts. Reflecting on the festival's official opening earlier in the day, officiated by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Chan expressed admiration for the crowd and the vibrant exhibitions. 'I was truly impressed by the enthusiastic crowd and the vibrant exhibitions showcased by various cocoa companies. I am especially proud of the strong presence of Malaysian and Sabah-based chocolate brands such as Beryl's, Benns Ethicoa, Benns Chocolate, Cocoa Kingdom, and many more,' he said. Chan acknowledged the international delegates, exhibitors and local entrepreneurs whose participation added prestige and dynamism to the festival. 'This evening is a special occasion for the cocoa fraternity, a celebration of our shared achievements. It is a moment to pause, reflect and express heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has attended and contributed to MICF 2025,' he stressed. He paid tribute to those who worked behind the scenes, as well as the festival's key supporters and sponsors. 'My deepest gratitude goes to those who supported the organisation of MICF 2025, whether through funding, product sponsorships, manpower, influence, or invaluable guidance,' he said. He made special mention of the Sabah State Government, the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO), and 27 strategic partners, including Diamond Strategic Partner Guan Chong Cocoa Manufacturer Sdn Bhd and Platinum Strategic Partners Nestlé Products Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Overseas Supply Trading (M) Sdn Bhd. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Malaysian Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia Airports Berhad, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, and others. 'Let us remember that sweetness is not only found in chocolate, it is also in the relationships we build, the respect we show, and the visions we share. May this evening serve not only as a meet-and-greet, but also as a meaningful platform for networking, one that continues even after we return to our respective homes and communities,' he said.
The Star
27-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
More Sabah farmers should venture into cocoa, says Hajiji
KOTA KINABALU: Farmers are encouraged to take up cocoa planting and expand the 3,000ha of land already under cultivation in Sabah, in light of growing global demand. Malaysia's cocoa exports reached a record RM15.06bil last year, three times higher than in 2023, reflecting rising international appetite for its cocoa-based goods. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said Sabah contributed significantly to this success, accounting for over 60% of the country's total output. ALSO READ: Sabah to host first Malaysia International Cocoa Fair 'Around 3,000 cocoa farmers in Ranau, Tenom, Kota Marudu, Keningau and Kuamut have benefitted from this thriving industry," he said at the Cocoa Gala Dinner in conjunction with the Malaysian International Cocoa Fair 2025 (MICF 2025) here on Monday (May 26). His speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister and state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. MICF 2025 was described as a milestone for Sabah, underscoring the state's vital role in Malaysia's cocoa industry. The Malaysian Cocoa Board was also praised for its efforts in driving the sector's growth. Hajiji hoped that MICF 2025 would generate lasting benefits, from new partnerships and investments to enhanced global awareness of Sabah, not only as Malaysia's leading cocoa-producing state, but also as a destination for business, tourism and culture.
Daily Express
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
Jeffrey moots John Gaisah Memorial
Published on: Saturday, May 24, 2025 Published on: Sat, May 24, 2025 By: Johan Aziz Text Size: Jeffrey singing a song popularised by the late Gaisah when opening the stage performance in Tambunan. TAMBUNAN: Deputy Chief Minister 1, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan fully supports a proposal to erect a Special Memorial for late singer Datuk John Gaisah in this district as a tribute to his services in the vocal arts. He said the legendary artist is still remembered by today's generation. According to him, Gaisah has contributed a lot, especially in the development of vocal arts in Sabah. 'If Elvis Presley can remain in the memories of tourists all over the world, why not our John Gaisah,' he said, and shared his nostalgia of singing Gaisah's songs with his family members when officiating the Pre-Kamaatan Open Stage in conjunction with the launch of the state-level Kaamatan Festival, here, recently. Jeffrey, who is also the Tambunan Assemblyman, believes that the existence of this Memorial can bring tourists to this district. The singer died in a car crash in 1984. He described the Kaamatan open stage as a platform to celebrate the state-level Kaamatan Festival in Tambunan, as well as opening up space for local vocal artists, including veteran artists in the district. Advertisement 'I suggest that this open stage be made a monthly event, or even held every weekend if possible as an entertainment attraction for the people and tourists to visit this district,' he said. Jeffrey, who is also State Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, said this is more meaningful. This stage is also seen as an initial step towards the construction of a Tambunan Cultural Arts Centre which will be a centre for documentation and developing artistic talents as well as recognition of local artistic legends. A total of 15 local artists in this district, contemporaries of Gaisah, have and enlivened the Pre-Kaamatan Open Stage performance, each of which performed songs sung and popularised by Gaisah for nine hours starting from 11am to 8pm. The artists were Geoffrey Ibun, Amandelina John, Babra Andreas, Eustasius John Jinuli, Gerald John, Helen Joseph, Anni John Jinuli, Elsie Mosi, Arnold Wances, Ambrose Poisil, Philipus Dani, Cecelia Sius, Robert Jimi Gonsupit, Harry Stephen and Rodney Samuel. Also entertaining the thousands were the Canang Borneo Buskers, Mix Band, Reedemix Blues, New Born Buskers and Blues Brothers. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Pra-Kaamatan Open Stage organiser, Applonius Jimi said that this programme was not only a platform to showcase local talent, but also functioned as a 'Mood Fishing' ahead of the main celebration of the Kaamatan Festival. He said there is need for a more suitable stage in future. He added that such programmes should be continued and diversified in content so that they continue to be an attraction for the public. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Express
Sabah traditional sports competition May 24-25
Published on: Sunday, May 18, 2025 Published on: Sun, May 18, 2025 By: GL Oh Text Size: The game of rampanau usually involves using a sago palm tree branch, hard wood and two pieces of bamboo. Players must walk or run using the rampanau. Kota Kinabalu: This year's traditional sports competition jointly organised by Sabah Sports Board, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, Youth and Sports Ministry and KDCA in conjunction with the Harvest Festival celebration will be held at SMK Bahang, Penampang on May 24-25. The nine disciplines drawn up by the organising committee for the contestants are 'gusti lengan', 'tarik tali', 'melastik', 'menyumpit', 'membujak', 'menjerat kerbau', 'menghidupkan api', 'terompak gergasi' and 'rampanau'. Advertisement The game of rampanau usually involves using a sago palm tree branch, hard wood and two pieces of bamboo measuring about 3m up to 10m, which is specially designed as a walking stilt and, to play, players must walk or run using the rampanau. It is open to the public and participation is free. The winners will take home prizes in the form of cash, medals and certificates. There will also will be lucky draws for those attending the event and the main prize on the second day is a motorcycle in addition to hampers, sports items and electrical goods. More than 10 teams including some from the Peninsula and Brunei have so far confirmed their participation in the annual event aimed to promote traditional sports for future generations as well as enliven the festive spirits. Advertisement Registration to join all the disciplines is open until the day of the programme apart from 'tarik tali' which closes on May 23. Further information can be obtained on the official Facebook account of Sabah Sports Board or to contact Stewart Anak Eddy Jampang (019-5304166) and Mohd Khairul Lamba (014-6518781). * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
New Straits Times
10-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Sabah revives rice and padi board to enhance food security, self-sufficiency level
KOTA BELUD: The Sabah government today revived the Sabah Rice and Padi Board, aiming to increase the state's rice self-sufficiency level to 30 per cent by next year and 60 per cent by 2030. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said various initiatives will be implemented through the board to enhance food security and meet local demand, while reducing dependence on imported rice. "Currently, Sabah produces only about 22.8 per cent of its rice needs, resulting in heavy reliance on imports," he said at the launch of the board and Agrobank's Padi Planting Takaful Scheme here today. His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I and Sabah's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. Hajiji called on relevant state agencies to extend full cooperation to the board, which will take over the development and management of padi cultivation from the Department of Agriculture starting this year, and serve as the regulatory body for both areas moving forward. Hajiji said the state government will focus on the development and management of padi cultivation across the key districts of Kota Marudu, Tuaran, Tambunan, Keningau, Papar, and Kota Belud, which collectively cover 22,218.35ha, involving 16,018 farmers. He added that the government is also implementing several other initiatives, such as promoting hill padi cultivation, thus urging hill landowners to utilise their land to cultivate high-quality rice varieties. "It is estimated that 13,266ha, or 32,767 acres, of hill land are suitable for padi cultivation, involving 15,617 farmers," he said, adding that if fully developed, these areas have the potential to yield up to 30,424 metric tonnes of hill padi annually. Drawing a comparison to Sarawak's well-known Bario rice, Hajiji said Sabah has its own distinctive hill padi varieties as well, such as Adan rice from Long Pasia, Sipitang, as well as those from Ranau, Kudat, and Pitas, which are gaining popularity. "I assure you that the state government remains fully committed to revitalising idle padi fields and increasing local rice production," he said, calling on government-linked companies to develop their unused land for the purpose. Meanwhile, Hajiji encouraged farmers to take advantage of the Padi Planting Takaful Scheme, which provides insurance protection. Under the scheme, Malaysian padi farmers aged 18 and above, cultivating in designated areas, registered under the Federal Government Fertiliser Scheme, and holding an Agrobank account, will be covered against crop damage caused by natural disasters, pests and diseases. – BERNAMA
