Sabah Farmers to Benefit from Digital Agriculture Push

19 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: New plans to boost digital agriculture technology (AgTech) adoption among farmers in Kapayan and Penampang, as part of a broader initiative to modernise the farming sector in Sabah was announced by Kapayan Assemblywoman Datuk Jannie Lasimbang.

During a recent site visit to four of eight proposed farms, Datuk Jannie was joined by Navin Sinnathamby from the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the lead agency under the Ministry of Digital.

Together, they introduced plans to install advanced digital farming systems aimed at improving productivity, efficiency, and sustainability for local farmers.

“This initiative reflects our shared commitment to advancing Digital AgTech in Sabah,” said Jannie. “We want to ensure that our farmers are not left behind in this era of digital transformation.”

She also expressed her gratitude to Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo, for his strong support and leadership in championing technological innovation in agriculture.

Sabah is currently the second highest recipient of Digital AgTech systems in the country. More than 70 systems were installed across the state in 2024, with an additional 10 scheduled for deployment in 2025.

Of these, five will feature artificial intelligence-powered capabilities to further enhance data-driven farming.

Nationally, over 600 digital systems have already been introduced, benefiting more than 30,000 agropreneurs.

These technologies are not only helping farmers to manage resources more efficiently but are also driving a shift towards smarter, more sustainable agricultural practices.

“These smart technologies have the potential to revolutionise how we farm, making agriculture not only more productive but also more inclusive and resilient,” Jannie added.

She emphasised that the adoption of digital systems is expected to empower small-scale farmers, encourage youth involvement in agriculture, and strengthen Sabah’s position within the growing digital economy.