Sawit Kinabalu Group has launched a pilot paddy cultivation project at Jalan Ongkilan in response to the State Government’s call to strengthen food security in Sabah. The project’s launch event was officiated by the Chief Minister of Sabah and Chairman of Sawit Kinabalu Group, YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor, alongside the Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries, YB Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Jeffrey G. Kitingan.

 

The pilot project is a collaboration with the Sabah Department of Agriculture, utilising high-quality TR8 variety paddy seeds. A systematic irrigation system and water pumps are also employed, funded by Sawit Kinabalu Group’s own initiatives. Mr. Victor Ationg, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sawit Kinabalu Group, explained that the project also serves as a platform for the application of the Technology Transfer (TOT) system in Paddy Field Management by the Sabah Department of Agriculture to Sawit Kinabalu.

 

The event was also attended by notable guests such as YB Datuk Jahid bin Jahim, Minister of Rural Development, YB Datuk Seri Panglima Sr Hj Safar Untong, State Secretary, YB Datuk Rubin Balang, Deputy Chairman of Sawit Kinabalu Group, YB Datuk Hendrus Anding, Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries Sabah and ADUN N.7 Tandek, Puan Meirin binti Sugara, District Officer of Kota Marudu, and the Board of Directors of Sawit Kinabalu Group.

 

The Sawit Kinabalu Group extends their deepest gratitude to YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor for his encouraging and insightful remarks regarding Sawit Kinabalu’s recent initiative aimed at enhancing paddy and rice productivity in Sabah. His support and recognition underscore a significant alignment with the State Government’s broader aspirations for agricultural development and food security. Moreover, Sawit Kinabalu Group eagerly anticipate continued collaboration with the State Government to achieve these vital goals and make a lasting impact for the community.