State Government Focuses on Strengthening Rural Economy
PENAMPANG – The state government remains committed to enhancing rural socio-economic development through various strategic approaches, including agricultural modernization, the promotion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and the development of community-based tourism.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said these efforts are a key pillar of the mission to achieve comprehensive and inclusive prosperity for the people under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan framework.
He stated that rural communities must continue to be given economic opportunities—whether through modern agriculture, community-based tourism, or skills training.
“This not only enables them to increase their income but also helps reduce the poverty rate in Sabah,” he said during the official launch of the 2025 State-Level Kaamatan Festival here on Friday.
The celebration was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Anwar Ibrahim.
Hajiji also noted that the reactivation of the Sabah Rice and Paddy Board aims to strengthen food security by increasing the Self-Sufficiency Level (SSL) of local rice production.
“Our target is a 30% rice SSL by next year and 60% by 2030. This initiative is crucial to reducing dependency on imports and strengthening local food supply,” he said.
He added that the development agenda would be more effective with strong support and collaboration between the State and Federal Governments.
“I am confident that the close and strong relationship with the Federal Government will be a catalyst for the success of the state’s development policies. It is vital to ensure that the people of Sabah directly benefit,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to Anwar for officiating the Kaamatan Festival, describing it as a sign of the Federal Government’s commitment to Sabah.
This year’s Kaamatan Festival, themed “Kaamatan For All,” marks the 65th celebration since it was officially introduced in 1960.
Hajiji emphasized that Kaamatan is more than just a cultural celebration—it is a symbol of unity and harmony among the people of Sabah that must be preserved.
“Kaamatan does not belong to one ethnic group alone, but to all the people of Sabah. It reflects the spirit of goodwill and harmony that forms the foundation of our state’s stability,” he said.
-Agency
