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New Straits Times
18-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Ministry allocates RM1 million for MD2 pineapple project in Sabah
SOOK: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry has allocated RM1 million, under the Land Use Optimisation Programme carried out in collaboration with the Sabah Land Development Board (SLDB), for the MD2 pineapple plantation project here. Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Ministry Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said Phase 1 of the project, covering six hectares with 250,000 pineapple vines planted, benefits 695 participants. "The participants are expected to enjoy the first harvest, expected between 12 and 15 months from now, thus supporting efforts to develop the community-based economy in rural areas, particularly in the interior of Sabah, where livelihoods largely depend on agricultural resources," he said in a statement here today. Arthur said the implementation of the project would not only boost the country's pineapple production but also create job opportunities, generate income for local farmers and promote overall rural economic development. He said SLDB had originally planned to develop oil palm plantations in the area, but the soil conditions proved unsuitable. As a result, SLDB took the initiative to optimise land use by cultivating pineapples instead, he added. He said the Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board was also involved in exploring the potential for collaboration, particularly in establishing a pineapple industry in Sook, with the ministry always focusing on high-value agricultural sectors such as the MD2 pineapple crop. Meanwhile, Arthur said that under the Sook Area Farmers' Organisation (PPK), a group-based MD2 pineapple cultivation project is being carried out in Kampung Sakikilo, involving 42 families. He said LPNM would contribute its expertise in pineapple cultivation and work alongside the Sook PPK to monitor the project, an initiative aimed at boosting the income of the participating communities. "I am planning for the board and the Malaysian Farmers' Organisation to establish a pineapple industry in Sook, turning it into a new economic source for the interior districts of Sabah," he said, adding that 5,000 pineapple vines, over 300 kilogrammes of fertiliser and a mini tiller machine had been handed over to kick-start the community project.
Daily Express
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
YB assures aid will continue for Nabawan flood victims
Published on: Tuesday, May 06, 2025 Published on: Tue, May 06, 2025 By: Marutin Ansiung Text Size: Ghani and his delegation being welcomed by a troupe of traditional dance performers. NABAWAN: Nabawan residents who were affected by the flash floods on April 11 will continue to receive attention and assistance from the relevant authorities. Nabawan Assemblyman, Datuk Abdul Ghani Mohamed Yassin (pic), said this is to ensure that the needs of flood victims are fully addressed. 'Even as we celebrate the Kaamatan Festival, we as leaders here will not forget the victims of the recent floods. We continue to monitor their situation and assess their needs.' He made the statement when met by the media after officiating the 2025 Nabawan District and Pagalungan Sub-District Level Kaamatan Festival at the District Council Open Stage last Sunday. Ghani, who is also Chairman of the Sabah Land Development Board, said the recent flood incident was among the worst in the past 50 years, causing damage to properties and crops. He said the festival has become a tradition among the KDMR ethnic group as well as other communities in Sabah. 'Every year in May, we celebrate the Kaamatan or Harvest Festival as a symbol of gratitude and unity, regardless of our differences, in line with this year's Kaamatan theme,' Ghani said. He said this year's theme, 'Kaamatan for All' or in the native language 'Kaamatan Katangan Kaawi', sends a clear message that the people of Sabah – regardless of race, ethnicity or religion – remain united and respectful of one another. Therefore, he called on everyone, especially the people of Nabawan, to continue preserving the harmony and well-being that have long been enjoyed, staying united despite minor differences that could lead to conflict. 'We must uphold our culture, traditions, and identity as a region largely inhabited by the Murut community. Our values of mutual help, respect, and support for one another are practices we must preserve and pass down to the younger generation in this district,' he said. Ghani also shared efforts by the State Government to ensure the continued welfare and harmony of its people. He said various forms of aid and assistance have been provided, particularly for the poor, the hardcore poor, vulnerable groups and small traders or entrepreneurs. 'In addition, our children – students – are also receiving various forms of assistance. I urge those who are eligible to register at the recommended locations or with the responsible agencies to avoid anyone being left out,' he said. He added that as a representative of the people in the area, he has done his best to raise development issues – whether planned or ongoing – with both State and Federal government agencies. 'We do not want any planned or ongoing development projects to be abandoned and cause difficulties for the community,' he further stressed. He said this is why he has consistently participated in State Assembly sessions, never skipping them, and takes part in debates and question-and-answer sessions to voice the needs of his constituents so they are not left out of current development progress. The Kaamatan Festival, also attended by a delegation from Lumbis Subdistrict in North Kalimantan, Indonesia, led by the Lumbis Subdistrict Chief (Pak Camat), was enlivened by traditional booths from each locality showcasing their unique cultures and traditional foods, as well as agricultural exhibitions and more. Also present were Nabawan District Officer Ts Marshal Anthony @ Idham, who chaired the 2025 Nabawan District Kaamatan Festival committee, Pagalungan Sub-District Assistant District Officer Hasinin Kinsim, Nabawan Community Development Leader Deckson Andipai, as well as department heads and community leaders. * 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
