Latest news with #Rundi
Borneo Post
13 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Milestone for Sarawak's livestock sector as 800 live pigs shipped to Selangor
Dr Rundi (sixth left) leads the ribbon cutting to officially launch of the shipment. – Photo by Chimon Upon KUCHING (July 25): Sarawak's livestock export industry achieved another milestone here today with the official shipment of 800 live pigs to Selangor. Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom described the occasion as a significant step in the state's journey towards becoming a net food exporter by 2030. 'Today we are witnessing 800 heads of pig all the way to Selangor. This event is indeed very significant. In fact, it is a historic moment that we have to share not only with Sarawakians, but also with Malaysians and the world – that we are now able to export live pigs. 'And in the future, perhaps poultry and more. This has been a dream for us. Becoming a net food exporter by 2030 is a gigantic task, but nonetheless, we are making it happen. 'Once people see that it can be done, they get motivated. And once they believe it's possible, the rest is just history,' he told reporters at the official loading ceremony at Pending Port. The shipment is expected to arrive in Klang within 60 hours or approximately two and a half days. Dr Rundi said this first shipment to Peninsular Malaysia would not be the last. 'In the future, there will be bigger shipments and consignment containers that we send to Selangor. They can have the abattoir in Selangor and the meat can be distributed all throughout West Malaysia. And also the plan is to send directly to Penang and Johor,' he said. The pigs were supplied by Green Breeder Sdn Bhd, a Sarawak-based company led by Dr Ng Siew Thiam and his family, who currently export approximately 2,000 pigs weekly to Singapore. Dr Rundi commended the company's efforts and biosecurity standards, noting their success in maintaining exports even during the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak that impacted many other regions. 'Sarawak has been fortunate to remain an exporter of live pigs to Singapore, and now, other Asean countries may also be looking at us in the same light. 'Sarawak is free from foot and mouth disease (FMD) and that gives us a real advantage and leverage in attracting investors and encouraging more livestock farming activities here in the state,' he explained. Dr Rundi pointed out Sarawak first began exporting live pigs to Singapore in 2017, starting with a farm in Simunjan. He said the initial goal was to involve smallholder farmers, but biosecurity and technological requirements proved challenging. 'Not many could survive under such tight protocols, so we had to move from subsistence farming to high tech. Dr Ng told me they are going all the way with high-tech systems and biosecurity. That's why they can survive,' he said. To support the livestock sector's growth, Dr Rundi said the state will establish a new School of Veterinary Medicine in Semenggok through a collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Sarawak, formerly known as UPM Bintulu Campus. 'At the moment, we are lacking veterinarians. We need many more to manage and support the livestock industry. 'When we visited Brazil, they had 4,000 vets looking after their cattle. Here, we have only 15 government vets handling everything, while the rest are private. So, it has to be comprehensive – we must plan everything properly so that we can realise the dream we have. 'With this initiative, we can plan more effectively for the future of the livestock and agricultural sectors in Sarawak. I see great potential for Sarawak to become an agricultural hub,' he added. On the issue of pork prices, Dr Rundi said the government is monitoring the situation, but market rates are ultimately driven by supply and demand. 'When you talk about business, it's supply and demand. What we need now is to increase the supply to help reduce the price. 'At the moment, the supply is limited, so prices go up. That's why everyone is craving for it and they have to pay for it. But if we can increase production and volume, we will have better control over supply and pricing,' he said. He explained that the government is taking steps to prevent prices from soaring too high. 'At the moment, the price is around RM32 per kg. In Sabah, it's RM45, and in West Malaysia, even more — over RM40 to RM45 in the Klang Valley. We are the cheapest now. We cannot complain — but still we complain,' he added. Among those present at the event were Deputy Minister for Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Datuk Martin Ben, Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak director Datu Dr Adrian Susil, Kuching Port Authority general manager Robert Lau Hong Thiam, Sarawak Agriculture Department director Dominic Chunggat, and Green Breeder Sdn Bhd director Dr Ng Yong Han. Dr Stephen Rundi Utom livestock
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Sarawak sets pineapple goal
KOTA SAMARAHAN: Sarawak's Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Ministry aims to expand pineapple plantations to 20,000 hectares by 2030, Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said today. He said about 2,199.43ha were planted with pineapples in the state. "The target is achievable because Sarawak is not only rich in fertile land but also has strong potential in the high-value agricultural sector such as pineapple cultivation. "Now, pineapple is no longer just a side crop, but is emerging as one of the drivers of the state's agricultural economy," he said at the meet-the-clients day organised by the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) to mark the National Pineapple Day. The text of Rundi's speech was read by the ministry's permanent secretary, Datuk Sirai anak Daha. However, he said the target would not be achieved without continuous efforts from all parties, adding that modern technology, digitalisation, and modernisation of agricultural practices were the key factors in ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of the pineapple industry — not only in the local market, but also globally. "Most importantly, good cooperation between the state government and LPNM as the representative of the federal government must be upheld." Rundi said through strategic cooperation between the state government and LPNM, various initiatives had been carried out, including the plantation incentive programme, farm infrastructure and the study on pineapple waste for bioeconomic use. He said this was in line with the government's direction in developing modern, smart and sustainable agriculture. He added more than RM23 million had been allocated by LPNM this year for planting materials, farm infrastructure and pineapple waste research. He said this was an opportunity for the people of Sarawak, especially young farmers who wanted to make farming their main career. The aid offered included the construction of a drainage system for better water control, a micro-irrigation system to ensure sufficient water for crops, the installation of fences for the safety of farm areas and the construction of farm roads to facilitate access and transportation of produce. Temporary product storage facilities to maintain the quality of the fruit before marketing was also available to farmers, he added. Over 200 participants attended the meet-the-clients day event here today. It was organised to boost the relationship between LPNM and smallholders, agro-entrepreneurs, training institutions and the public. LPNM director-general Mohd Khairuzamri Salleh said the meet-the-clients day was an important platform to deliver the latest information, opportunities in the pineapple industry and channel assistance and incentives to eligible target groups. He said the programme aimed to boost public awareness about the potential of the pineapple industry in Sarawak. "This meet-the-clients day is a strategic initiative to strengthen relationships and cooperation between stakeholders in the pineapple industry from plantation operators, researchers, producers, manufacturers to exporters with LPNM as the agency fully responsible for safeguarding the interests of the national pineapple industry," he said. Participants included representatives of government agencies, pineapple entrepreneurs and those interested in cultivating the fruit. Among the events included a briefing on the main varieties such as MD2, Moris and Sarawak Gold 1, as well as plant care guidelines according to good agricultural practices. LPNM also provided exposure on pineapple farm management technology as well as information on the agricultural input assistance and pineapple entrepreneur schemes.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Dr Rundi: Dedicated pineapple processing plant to be established in Miri
Sirai (standing, centre) and Mohd Khairuzamri on his right in a group photo with LPNM Sarawak representatives and recipients of the 2025 project incentive grants at the event. – Photo by Chimon Upon KOTA SAMARAHAN (July 24): A dedicated pineapple processing plant will be established in Miri as part of Sarawak's long-term strategy to strengthen its position in the national and global pineapple industry, said Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom. The Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister said the plant will be a key component in completing the state's pineapple industry ecosystem. 'Intensive efforts are being made to realise the establishment of a pineapple processing plant in Miri. This plant will not only act as a catalyst for transforming the landscape of the pineapple industry in Sarawak but will also complete the industry's ecosystem by providing market assurance to producers. 'This is a symbol of our commitment to building a pineapple industry in Sarawak that is not only more modern and competitive, but also brings comprehensive benefits to the people and the state,' he said in his speech at the Program Bertemu Pelanggan & Penyampaian Bantuan Insentif Projek by the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) Sarawak, held at Dewan Pertubuhan Peladang Negeri Sarawak here today. Dr Rundi's speech was delivered by his ministry's permanent secretary Datu Sirai Daha. Dr Rundi said the facility forms part of Sarawak's broader strategic direction under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which includes three major development packages: a Basic Incentive Package for smallholders, a Cluster Incentive Package for existing and new grower groups, and a Commercial Package targeting companies and commercial-scale producers. 'With this more inclusive policy framework, LPNM Sarawak is expected to receive a larger allocation under 13MP, paving the way for balanced development across the entire value chain—from cultivation and processing to marketing,' he said. Sarawak has also set a target to develop 20,000 hectares of pineapple plantations by 2030—contributing two-thirds of LPNM's national target of 30,000 hectares. 'With Malaysia's total pineapple cultivation area recorded at 18,135 hectares in 2024, I believe that achieving higher figures by 2030 is not impossible,' he added. He emphasised that success will depend on close collaboration among all stakeholders, especially between the Sarawak government and LPNM. 'Modern technology, digitalisation, and the transformation of farming practices are essential to sustaining and improving the competitiveness of our pineapple industry at both the national and international levels,' he said. Dr Rundi also revealed that over RM23 million has been allocated by LPNM this year to support the industry in Sarawak through the provision of planting materials, farm infrastructure, and research into pineapple waste for bioeconomy use. 'This includes assistance such as drainage systems, fencing, farm roads, temporary storage facilities, and micro-irrigation systems. Solar lighting is also being introduced under the Night Farming Programme to extend working hours in the field and enhance productivity,' he said. Earlier, he launched the e-Pineapple system, with Sarawak becoming the first state to implement the platform. 'This is a major step in embracing digital transformation within the agri-food sector and aligns with the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy. 'The system enhances project administration, enables real-time collection of grower data, and allows for transparent and efficient monitoring. I believe it will serve as a model for other states,' he said. He also urged all participants—including researchers, educators, growers, and entrepreneurs—to continue supporting national efforts in elevating the pineapple industry. 'Today, we are the second-largest pineapple-producing state in Malaysia. One day, we may become number one—and even a global leader,' he said. The event also featured the presentation of project incentives to growers from Samarahan and Sibu divisions. Also present at the event were LPNM director-general Mohd Khairuzamri M. Saleh, Beting Maro assemblyman Razali Gapor, Samarahan Division Resident Mohamad Irwan Bahari Bujang, and LPNM Sarawak director Mohd Nazaiful Azdi Rahman.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak leads digital transformation with e-Pineapple system
Sirai officiates the launch of the e-Pineapple System at the event on behalf of Dr Rundi, witnessed by other distinguished guests. – Photo by Chimon Upon KOTA SAMARAHAN (July 24): Sarawak has become the first state in Malaysia to pioneer the implementation of the e-Pineapple system, marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of the national pineapple industry. Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said the launch of the e-Pineapple system demonstrates Sarawak's readiness to embrace digitalisation in agrofood. 'Today also marks a significant milestone with the launch of the e-Pineapple System, with Sarawak becoming the first state to pioneer its implementation. 'This proves that Sarawak is ready to face the challenges of digital transformation in the agri-food sector, in line with the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy agenda,' he said in his speech at the Program Hari Bertemu Pelanggan & Penyampaian Bantuan Insentif Projek of the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) Sarawak 2025, held at the State Farmers' Organisation hall here today. Dr Rundi's speech was delivered by his ministry's permanent secretary Datu Sirai Daha. According to Dr Rundi, the e-Pineapple system will significantly improve project administration, streamline data collection on farmers and crop production, and enhance transparency and efficiency in project monitoring. 'I believe this system will be a model for other states,' he added. He also noted that the ministry is committed to advancing digitalisation across all aspects of the pineapple industry, including farm management and product processing, through the adoption of big data and analytics. 'With the use of big data and analytics, more accurate and efficient decisions can be made—from farm management to processing. 'Researchers and educators play a major role in supplying the data and knowledge required to ensure every decision is backed by evidence and the latest innovations,' he said. Dr Rundi said Sarawak is set to contribute 20,000 hectares of cultivated land toward the national target of 30,000 hectares under the LPNM by 2030. 'With Malaysia's total pineapple cultivation at 18,135 hectares in 2024, we believe this target is achievable,' he said. He pointed out that the pineapple industry in Sarawak is growing rapidly and is no longer a secondary crop but an emerging driver of the state's agricultural economy. 'Sarawak is not only rich in fertile land but also possesses extraordinary potential in high-value agriculture, such as pineapples. 'Through strategic collaboration between LPNM and the state government, we have seen various key initiatives implemented, including the Crop Incentive Programme, Farm Infrastructure Development, and Pineapple Waste Studies for bioeconomy purposes. This is in line with the government's direction in advancing modern, smart, and sustainable agriculture,' he said. Dr Rundi revealed that over RM23 million has been allocated by LPNM this year to support pineapple-related development in Sarawak. 'This is a major commitment that should be fully utilised by the people of Sarawak, especially young farmers who want to pursue agriculture as their primary career,' he said. Among the support provided are drainage systems for improved water control, fencing for farm security, farm road construction to ease transport, and temporary storage facilities to maintain fruit quality. In areas where needed, micro-irrigation systems are also provided. 'In line with modern agriculture, LPNM has introduced the installation of solar lights under the Night Farming Programme to help maximise productivity and improve operations for pineapple farmers in Sarawak,' he added. He also revealed that efforts are underway to establish a pineapple processing plant in Miri. 'This factory will not only serve as a catalyst for transforming the pineapple industry landscape in Sarawak, but it will also complete the industry ecosystem by providing market assurance to producers. 'This is a symbol of our commitment to building a pineapple industry in Sarawak that is not only more modern and competitive, but also brings comprehensive benefits to the people and the state,' he added. Also present at the event were LPNM director-general Mohd Khairuzamri M. Saleh, Beting Maro assemblyman Razali Gapor, Samarahan Division Resident Mohamad Irwan Bahari Bujang, and LPNM Sarawak director Mohd Nazaiful Azdi Rahman.
Borneo Post
18-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Cultivate rice to boost Sarawak's food security, Dr Rundi tells NCR landowners
Dr Rundi visits one of the booths during the expo. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KOTA SAMARAHAN (July 18): Native Customary Rights (NCR) landowners are being urged to participate in rice cultivation initiatives – whether on a small or large scale – as part of efforts to strengthen food security and reduce the heavy reliance on oil palm plantations. Sarawak Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, said currently, almost 83 per cent of land designated for commodities is being used for oil palm cultivation due to its established supply chain and lucrative returns. However, he cautioned that over-dependence on oil palm could jeopardise the state's food security, especially in times of crisis, such as war or disruptions in rice imports. 'We must always be prepared. That is why food security is important. Rice is our staple food. I urge farmers not to wait for large-scale projects. 'Even behind your homes, there may be one or two acres of land – use modern methods to plant rice for your own use. If there is a surplus, it can be sold,' he said. He made these remarks when officiating the Agriculture Mini Expo 2025 organised by the Sarawak State Farmers Organisation (PPNS), held at the PPNS Hall here today. Dr Rundi explained that rice cultivation can be done on a larger scale by mobilising villagers or longhouse communities to collectively work on their land and plant the same rice variety. 'If each person has three or four acres of land, when combined across an entire village or longhouse, it can amount to about 100 acres,' he said. Dr Rundi also called on farmers to go further by adopting teamwork and collaborative approaches, similar to those practised by farming communities in Thailand. According to him, Thai farmers have successfully developed agricultural products collectively without relying entirely on government assistance. 'Whatever they do – be it 'pandan' coconut, aquaculture, or others – they do it as a team. They would identify one product idea, and everyone in that area would produce it together. They don't depend on the government for support. 'This is in stark contrast to local farmers who tend to wait for assistance before initiating their own efforts. 'If we rely too heavily on aid, our spirit and commitment will never be as strong as those (in Thailand) who started on their own initiative,' he added. Commenting on the expo, which runs until tomorrow, Dr Rundi described it as a crucial event in exposing farmers to new technologies, smart farming methods, and market access. The expo brings together 45 exhibitors and features a variety of attractions such as local agricultural product exhibitions; modern farming demonstrations; knowledge-sharing sessions from agencies and successful entrepreneurs; sales of agro-food and rural products; and interactive community programmes. The farming community are encouraged to take advantage of the expo and support PPNS' ongoing commitment to improving the socioeconomic status of its members. The Agriculture Mini Expo 2025 is the first of its kind organised by PPNS, and is expected to open up more economic opportunities for agropreneurs, particularly in areas such as product development, access to financing, and market expansion. The programme is also expected to grow into an annual highlight and contribute significantly to the development of the state's agri-food sector. Among those present were Dr Rundi's deputy ministers Datuk Martin Ben and Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail who is also PPNS chairman; Samarahan Division Resident Mohamad Irwan Bujang; District officer Ahmad Abdul Razak; Sarawak Agriculture Department director Dominic Chunggat; and PPNS general manager Gom Raway. Dr Stephen Rundi Utom food security NCR landowners rice cultivation
