SEBAUH – Agrofest Sebauh 2026 has reaffirmed its role as a key platform for advancing Sarawak’s agrofood sector, offering farmers and entrepreneurs opportunities to access new technologies, extension services, and market linkages. The event, held on 10 July 2026, was officiated by the Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development, YB Dato Sri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom.
In his opening address, Dr. Rundi highlighted that Agrofest is more than a promotional fair. He described it as a medium that bridges farmers with government agencies, enabling them to receive technical guidance, adopt modern agricultural practices, and improve productivity. He stressed that such engagement is vital to increasing farmers’ income and strengthening Sarawak’s food security agenda.
The Sarawak Agriculture Department used the occasion to announce a study exploring Sebauh’s potential as a nangchem production hub. Director Dominic Chunggat explained that demand for the crop has been rising, including from neighbouring Brunei Darussalam. He noted that developing Sebauh into a production centre could create new opportunities for farmers to diversify into high-value crops, thereby reinforcing the state’s agrofood supply chain.
Chunggat also encouraged entrepreneurs to pursue Malaysian Good Agricultural Practices (MyGAP) certification. He said certification would help ensure food safety standards, boost consumer confidence, and enhance the competitiveness of Sarawak’s agricultural products in both domestic and international markets. Farmers were further advised to focus on crops with strong market demand to secure sustainable income streams.
Agrofest Sebauh 2026 also celebrated excellence in agriculture through the Peladang Jaya Award Presentation Ceremony. Three categories of awards were presented: the Peladang Jaya Crop Category Award, the Peladang Jaya Agro-based Industry (IAT) Category Award, and the Peladang Jaya Aquaculture Category Award. These awards recognised outstanding contributions by agricultural entrepreneurs who have demonstrated innovation and resilience in their respective fields.
The event drew participation from senior officials and community leaders, underscoring its significance. Among those present were Deputy Minister of Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development YB Datuk Martin Ben; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Datu Sirai Daha; Bintulu Division Resident Datu Nyurak Keti; Sebauh District Officer Thaddeus Ling Bartholomew Allu; Deputy Director of Agriculture (Development Sector) Mr. Gilbert Igi; Deputy Director of Agriculture (Operations Sector) Mrs. Radziah binti Jack; and Bintulu Division Agriculture Officer Mr. Jackson Nanta anak Barnabas Baie. Their attendance reflected strong institutional support for agrofood development in Sarawak.
Agrofest Sebauh has become an annual fixture in Sarawak’s agricultural calendar, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and technology transfer. It also serves as a marketplace where farmers can showcase their products, connect with buyers, and explore new business opportunities. The festival’s emphasis on sustainability and innovation aligns with Sarawak’s broader vision of becoming a high-income state by 2030.
The focus on Sebauh as a potential nangchem hub illustrates how localised initiatives can contribute to state-wide development goals. By tapping into regional strengths and responding to market demand, Sarawak aims to build a resilient agrofood sector capable of supporting both economic growth and community welfare.
As Agrofest Sebauh 2026 concluded, participants expressed optimism that the event would continue to inspire farmers and entrepreneurs to embrace modern practices, pursue certification, and explore high-value crops. With strong government backing and growing market opportunities, Sebauh is poised to play a larger role in Sarawak’s agricultural future.
