Hajiji (centre) joining other leaders in performing the traditional padi harvesting ritual to mark the launch of the 2026 State-level Kaamatan Festival at Dewan Masyarakat Papar today.
PAPAR: Strengthening food security and improving the State Self-Sufficiency Ratio (SSR) remain key priorities of the State Government, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
He said a total of RM559.85 million has been allocated this year to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Ministry (MAFFI) to drive these efforts.
Hajiji said the Government has implemented various initiatives to enhance food security, including the establishment of the Sabah Padi and Rice Board as well as the development of padi cultivation areas statewide, including in Papar and neighbouring districts such as Membakut, Beaufort and Kuala Penyu.
“In line with the spirit of the Kaamatan Festival, which celebrates the harvest, the agriculture sector remains one of the three main pillars driving the State’s economic growth under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 Development Plan (SMJ 2.0).
“This reflects the State Government’s commitment to ensuring strong food security, especially amid current global economic and geopolitical uncertainties,” he said when launching the State-level Kaamatan Festival at Dewan Masyarakat, here, today.
He also called on the public to support local products, particularly Sabah’s agricultural produce, to strengthen the domestic economy.
“The progress we enjoy today would be meaningless without unity and strong cooperation among the people of various races and religions in this State.
“I therefore call on all Sabahans to continue working hand in hand with the Government in realising every agenda, especially the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0,” he said.
Hajiji said the Government will continue implementing assistance initiatives to improve the people’s standard of living and socio-economic status, including support in education, human capital development and public wellbeing.
He added that the State remains committed to ensuring inclusive and balanced development so that all segments of society can share in the prosperity achieved.
On Papar, Hajiji said the district has seen encouraging progress through ongoing infrastructure and commercial development projects, including in Benoni and Kinarut.
“With the completion of the Pan Borneo Highway, Papar has strong potential to emerge as a major stopover destination for visitors from Brunei and Sarawak,” he said.
He added that facilities such as the Borneo Cultural Village and the Sabah Native Customary School would further enhance Papar’s potential as a progressive and competitive district.
Hajiji said Papar was a fitting choice to host the Kaamatan launch as it is well known for its fertile padi fields.
“The district is not only rich in produce but also in cultural values and strong community spirit among its multi-ethnic population living in harmony. This reflects the Sabah we are proud of,” he said.
He noted that this year’s Kaamatan theme, “Kaamatan: Harvesting Unity, Celebrating Harmony,” highlights the importance of unity among Sabah’s diverse communities.
Hajiji also welcomed the strong turnout at the event, describing it as a reflection of shared responsibility in preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
“The younger generation must understand, respect and embrace diversity as the foundation of harmony and unity, especially in an increasingly modern and challenging world.
“Let us continue to strengthen unity, preserve harmony and build a brighter future for Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji announced a RM1 million allocation for the construction of a roofed futsal court complete with a grandstand in the district.
He said the allocation reflects the Government’s commitment to listening to and addressing the needs of the people.
