Paradigm Sabah agro sector shift urged
Published on: Thu, May 15, 2025 Text Size: Jeffrey (5th from right) at the 44th Annual Malaysian Society of Animal Production (MSAP) conference. Kota Kinabalu: Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan called for a revolutionary shift in animal husbandry towards a circular economy, emphasizing its potential to reshape the livestock industry at the 44th Annual Malaysian Society of Animal Production (MSAP) conference. In his keynote address at the Le Meridien Hotel, Jeffrey stressed the urgent need for the agriculture sector to adopt sustainable practices that transform waste into valuable resources and guide the livestock industry toward a more sustainable economic model. 'The circular economy aims to transform animal husbandry systems and supply chain management towards a sustainable economic model,' Jeffrey explained. 'This approach turns waste into a resource, fuels innovation for regeneration, and makes sustainability a measurable outcome.' He acknowledged the significant challenges in shifting industry mindsets, particularly in an era when convenience often outweighs long-term environmental considerations. 'Shifting to this model is no easy feat, but it's a pivotal step toward securing a sustainable future for our livestock sector,' he said. Jeffrey urged researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to join forces in overhauling existing systems and building more integrated, resource-efficient production processes. 'Everyone here plays a crucial role in unlocking the potential of the circular economy,' he asserted. The Minister also highlighted the Sabah Government's commitment to advancing the local livestock industry, pointing to ongoing initiatives under the Third Sabah Agricultural Policy (SAP3) and the National Agricultural Policy (DAN 2.0). These efforts aim to modernize agriculture, improve cattle breeding, and promote rural development through the Rural Agricultural Economic Revolution (RAER). Jeffrey concluded by praising the organizing committee for their efforts in making the conference a success and recognizing the event's role in shaping the future trajectory of Malaysia's livestock sector. 'The path to sustainable growth is a collective journey. Together, we can drive the transformation needed to accelerate post-pandemic recovery and elevate productivity,' he said. The conference, held in collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), and the Malaysian Veterinary Services Department (DVS), marked a significant return to Kota Kinabalu after 16 years. More than 100 delegates from academia, veterinary medicine, and industry gathered to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable livestock management. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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