BETONG, Nov 20: Farmers should also focus on producing other products such as the traditional Iban “kasam ikam” or fermented fish on the side of their primary agriculture activities to generate more income.
Layar state assemblyman Gerald Rentap Jabu emphasised that such low-hanging fruit tasks required relatively less effort but can maximise productivity and generate income in shorter span of time.
“Go for the low hanging fruit.
“This will allow you to generate some income the shortest of time,” he said this before attending an Agriculture Facilitation Fund (AFF) projects implementation briefing at the divisional Agriculture Office here yesterday (Nov 19).
A good example, Gerald shared, was the production of traditional Iban “kasam ikan” or fermented fish for sale by the longhouse folks themselves.
“There is always a ready demand for this dish from among the communities,” he added.
But for the production to be sustainable, he pointed out that the supply chain must be established and sustained.
Those interested could apply for financial assistance and inputs from the Agriculture Department.
“The Department is providing plastic tanks, water pumps and the fish fries under its inland fish breeding scheme.
“But there must be the passion and commitment. We do not want people to run hot and cold in the undertaking. This would be a waste of fund,” he said.
Later at the function, Gerald presented a RM10,000 grant to the Betong Agriculture Office Recreational Club.
Political secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Richard Rapu represented Deputy Chief Minister and Bukit Saban assemblyman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the meeting.
Also present were the divisional agriculture officer Petrus Kang and his officers. — DayakDaily
