Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah (third right) and state Food Industry, Commodity And Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi (third left) looking at local crafts on display at the Sarawak Agrotourism Conference and Expo in Kuching. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak aims to increase farmers' income and alleviate poverty by diversifying their income streams through agrotourism and exploring related business opportunities, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said agrotourism played a significant role in the Sarawak post-Covid-19 development strategy (PCDS 2030), which focused on social inclusivity and driving economic and social benefits for all Sarawakians.
"The Sarawak government is committed to fully supporting the development of the agrotourism sector under PCDS 2030," he said at the opening of the Sarawak Agrotourism Conference and Expo here on Monday (Aug 28).
Abang Johari, whose speech was read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, said agrotourism's potential was still at the infancy stage in the state.
He said Sarawak's farms, infrastructure and facilities could be strategically promoted to place the state at the forefront of agrotourism.
"By offering a distinct and unique tourism product, we elevate Sarawak's recognition beyond the regular and common offerings in tourism," he said.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak had the potential to offer rich and authentic agrotourism experiences to attract high-yield tourists who would appreciate the state's land, cuisine and traditions.
He added that agrotourism was also a way to uplift local communities and facilitate rural development.
"Community-based tourism, an integral part of agrotourism, empowers our local residents by directly engaging them in tourism activities.
"This involvement brings not only economic benefits but also reinforces the values of preserving our farming, ecological and cultural environments," he said.
Through the conference, Abang Johari said the state aimed to promote investment in agrotourism to encourage the development of new infrastructure, accommodation, food production and tourism services.
This in turn would boost rural development, community participation and job creation, he said.
"This sector opens up employment opportunities, both full-time and part-time, creating a new job market for our university graduates and school leavers," he added.
The three-day conference covers topics such as global trends and regional policies in agrotourism, regenerative tourism, community-based food production, farm tourism and sustainability indicators.
It will also present an overview of agriculture in Sarawak and agrotourism case studies from New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines.
