Boost Quality Farming, Protect Local Growers

4 May 2026

PAPAR: Efforts to champion high-quality farming practices through the Malaysian Good Agricultural Practice (MyGAP) certification must be expanded to guarantee food safety and enhance the value of local produce.

Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industries Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar said the success of Owan’s Farm, a fertigation and hydroponic operation in Kampung Buang Sayang here that has earned MyGAP certification, should serve as an example for other growers.

He noted that the certification proves the farm’s produce meets stringent standards, including minimal chemical use and eco-friendly methods.

“This means the output complies with good agricultural practices, featuring controlled pesticide application, greater environmental friendliness, and safety for consumption,” he said during a visit to the farm today.

Jamawi stressed that this approach needs to be scaled up and set as a benchmark for operators across Sabah.

“We must promote this widely and educate the public to choose food sources verified by the Department of Agriculture or the ministry,” he added.

He emphasised that such steps are vital for building consumer awareness of food quality and safety, forming part of an ongoing process to foster greater appreciation for premium local produce.

The ministry will continue supporting local operators, particularly in hydroponics and fertigation, he said.

“I propose gathering more enthusiasts and operators in Sabah for engagement sessions,” he added, noting that this could help market produce at better prices than traditional methods.

Meanwhile, he said biosecurity measures are being strengthened to safeguard the local farming industry.

“We’ve tightened enforcement on imported produce,” he said, while acknowledging ongoing smuggling activities that harm the local market.

“Cheap imported agricultural goods are flooding in, impacting our farmers’ incomes.”

To counter this, he called for closer collaboration with enforcement agencies.

“We need to work with Customs, relevant agencies, the General Operations Force, Marine Police, and police to stem these activities,” he said.

Such unified efforts are crucial to ensure ongoing food quality while protecting Sabah’s local farmers’ livelihoods.

Also present were Owan’s Farm chairman Datuk Haji Awang Buhtaman Haji Awang Mahmun, MAFFI deputy secretary-general Awang Dzulkernain Awang Hassan, and Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture Jackson R. Jaimi.