CM Proud of Sabahan’s Achievement in Receiving ASEAN Leadership Award

19 December 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has lauded the achievement of Sabahan Gerald Wong, who received the 7th ASEAN Rural Development and Poverty Eradication Leadership Award, describing it as a source of pride for Sabah and Malaysia at the regional level.

He said Gerald’s success as the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Farm Tokou, based in Telupid, demonstrated the capability of Sabahans to compete and lead rural development initiatives at the ASEAN level.

“Congratulations on this proud achievement. Gerald’s success should serve as an inspiration, particularly to Sabah’s youth, proving that diligence and commitment to community development can gain international recognition,” he said during a meeting with Gerald at his office at Menara Kinabalu here on Thursday.

Gerald was among 20 recipients from 10 ASEAN countries, placing Sabah alongside regional figures recognised for outstanding leadership in poverty eradication and community empowerment.

Commenting on the recognition, Gerald said the award was the result of collective efforts involving rural communities directly engaged in the implementation of modern agricultural initiatives.

“Through Farm Tokou, we introduce modern agricultural approaches such as hydroponics, aquaponics and technology-driven farming systems, supported by skills training and community-based economic development that help generate sustainable supplementary income,” he said.

He added that Farm Tokou currently operates in Telupid and Penampang, and has guided more than 100 rural communities across 10 districts since 2023, including Telupid, Penampang, Sook, Ranau, Kudat and Papar.

According to Gerald, the achievement was not an individual success but a shared one with rural communities that are committed to embracing change and innovation in the agricultural sector.

“This award belongs to all the communities who believe that modern agriculture can serve as a catalyst for rural economic development,” he said.