By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 20: The Sarawak Agrofest 2025 (SAF 2025) will be held at the Bintulu Old Airport from Aug 22 to 31, targeting over 600,000 visitors and an estimated RM6 million in sales, representing a 20 per cent increase from last year.
According to Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Sarawak Agrofest 2025 is expected to be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on Aug 23.
“The main objective of SAF is to actively promote agriculture and the agro-based industry by showcasing its various components, thereby providing a dynamic platform to attract greater investor interest and enhance youth participation in the sector,” said Dr Rundi at a press conference on SAF 2025 at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) here today.
He went on to say that in embracing the future of agriculture, this year’s theme, ‘Industrialising the Agro Sector Through Smart Technology’, highlights the transformative role of innovation in driving productivity, sustainability, and growth.
“By integrating cutting-edge technologies such as precision farming, automation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics, we can modernise traditional practices, empower agropreneurs, and position the agriculture sector as a key economic driver.
“Adopting digital technology enhances productivity and allows farmers to optimise the use of resources such as water, fertiliser, and pesticides.
“Automation and smart machinery reduce labour dependency and increase operational efficiency,” he said, adding that data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) also support better decision-making from planting to harvesting, while improving crop yield and quality.
Dr Rundi went on to say that several divisional and district-level agrofests are planned and will be implemented as a prelude to SAF 2025.
“To date, two mini agrofests have been held, namely in Limbang and Pakan. Upcoming mini agrofests are scheduled to take place in Serian (May 23–25, 2025), Subis (Aug 8–10, 2025), Spaoh (July 25–27, 2025), and Selangau (Aug 1-3, 2025).”
SAF 2025 will be a comprehensive agricultural festival that integrates multiple key components, including conferences, exhibitions and sales, investment promotion, food showcases, and competitive events.
These elements will be delivered through various engaging segments, namely the Agencies Pavilion, Laman Padi, Laman Nanas, Laman Ikan, Laman Getah, Laman Sagu and Nipah, Laman Ternakan, AgroTrade, AgroFresh, AgroTech, AgroInput, Smart Farming, Peladang e-Shop, and Sarawak Kitchen offering Muslim and Non-Muslim food.
Dr Rundi also said SAF 2025 will create opportunities for agricultural stakeholders to establish networking, business matching and cooperation to enhance the agricultural supply and value chain.
“It will also provide a venue for product presentations, product launching, agro-product promotions, demonstrations, competitions, and awards.”
Numerous entertainment programmes will also be hosted, including concerts, cultural performances, karaoke competitions, Ratu Agrofest 2025, Battle of The Bands, and lucky draws.
More than 200 exhibitors including government agencies, agribusiness companies, food processors and distributors, cooperatives and farmer associations, agri-tech startups and financial institutions are expected to participate in this festival.
For more information, the public is encouraged to visit the SAF 2025 website at https://agrofest.sarawak.gov.my or follow Sarawak Agrofest on Facebook and Instagram (@sarawakagrofestmy). — DayakDaily
