IPOH: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry is intensifying efforts to continue modernising the agriculture sector to attract the young generation to take up farming as a career.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, said the ministry is working with various agencies to encourage youths to work in the agricultural sector by providing funds and integrating technology and modern techniques.
"The ministry has a Young Agropreneur Programme, and we receive an overwhelming response from the youth.
"We are working closely with various agencies, including bank institutions, as we receive a good response from the youth (to get involved in this programme).
"Previously, we knew that mud and agriculture could not be separated, but now we have modern technologies, and they would not be exposed to a hot scorching sun; some of them even work in air conditioning environment," he said.
He told reporters this after the launch of the Young Agropreneur Graduate Programme in conjunction with the 2023 National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen's Day (HPPNK) at Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah here, today.
In his earlier speech, Mohamad said the new concept of this year's HPPNK provides a unique attraction for young people by emphasising four main focuses: Agro Millenia, Agro Technology and Innovation, Sejahtera Madani and Agro Madani.
"Agro Millenia aims to encourage and maintain the involvement of young people in agriculture. Among the main attractions are employment and education opportunities in the agricultural sector, sharing success stories of young people and e-sports activities.
"Agro Technology and Innovation offer cutting-edge agro-technology and innovation in agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and the Internet of Things and agricultural sustainability, including segments on climate change and food waste.
"Meanwhile, Sejahtera Madani focuses on six main segments, including various programs and activities such as Council with Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen, PeladangNita and family activities.
"The last focus is Agro Madani. This program celebrates visitors with various agricultural sales products through Madani Agro Sales, Food Empire, agricultural products and agro-based industries, fruits and floriculture," he said.
The minister said the HPPNK programme had received an overwhelming response, with over 200,000 people attending today.
Mohamad said he is confident the total number of visitors will exceed their stipulated target of 350,000 people.